Transmitting/receiving system and method of processing data in the transmitting/receiving system

ABSTRACT

A receiving system and a method for processing data in the receiving system are disclosed. The receiving system includes a receiving unit, a first handler, and a second handler. The receiving unit receives a broadcast signal through a mobile broadcast network. Herein, the broadcast signal includes mobile service data and a first signaling table. And, the first signaling table includes service guide transmission information and service guide bootstrapping information on the mobile service data. The first handler acquires the service guide bootstrapping information based upon the service guide transmission information included in the first signaling table. And, the second handler accesses a service guide by using the acquired service guide bootstrapping information.

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.61/161,411, filed on Mar. 19, 2009, which is hereby incorporated byreference as if fully set forth herein. This application also claims thepriority benefit of Korean Application No. 10-2009-0083023, filed onSep. 3, 2009, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a transmitting system for transmittingdata for broadcast, a receiving system (or receiver) for receiving datatransmitted from the transmitting system, and a method of processingdata in the transmitting system and the receiving system (or receiver).

2. Discussion of the Related Art

The Vestigial Sideband (VSB) transmission mode, which is adopted as thestandard for digital broadcasting in North America and the Republic ofKorea, is a system using a single carrier method. Therefore, thereceiving performance of the receiving system may be deteriorated in apoor channel environment. Particularly, since resistance to changes inchannels and noise is more highly required when using portable and/ormobile broadcast receivers, the receiving performance may be even moredeteriorated when transmitting mobile service data by the VSBtransmission mode.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, the present invention is directed to a digital broadcastingtransmitting/receiving system and a data processing method thatsubstantially obviate one or more problems due to limitations anddisadvantages of the related art.

An object of the present invention is to provide a digital broadcastingtransmitting/receiving system and a data processing method that arehighly resistant to channel changes and noise.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a receiving systemand a method for processing data that can efficiently receive a serviceguide.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a receiving systemand a method for processing data that can receive bootstrappinginformation of a service guide.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a receiving systemand a method for processing data that can receive bootstrappinginformation of a service guide being transmitted through a mobilebroadcast signal of different channel.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a receiving systemand a method for processing data that can receive bootstrappinginformation of a service guide being transmitted through a differentbroadcasting network.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a receivingsystem and a method for processing data that can receive bootstrappinginformation of a service guide being transmitted through abi-directional (or two-way or interaction) channel.

Additional advantages, objects, and features of the invention will beset forth in part in the description which follows and in part willbecome apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art uponexamination of the following or may be learned from practice of theinvention. The objectives and other advantages of the invention may berealized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in thewritten description and claims hereof as well as the appended drawings.

To achieve these objects and other advantages and in accordance with thepurpose of the invention, as embodied and broadly described herein, adata processing method in a receiving system includes the steps ofreceiving a broadcast signal through a mobile broadcast network, whereinthe broadcast signal includes mobile service data and a first signalingtable, and wherein the first signaling table includes service guidetransmission information and service guide bootstrapping information onthe mobile service data, acquiring the service guide bootstrappinginformation based upon the service guide transmission informationincluded in the first signaling table, and accessing a service guide byusing the acquired service guide bootstrapping information.

Herein, when the service guide transmission information indicates thatthe service guide is included and transmitted in the broadcast signalincluding the mobile service data, the service guide bootstrappinginformation may include an identifier of a mobile service including theservice guide and a transmission session identifier for an announcementchannel of the service guide.

When the service guide transmission information indicates that theservice guide is included and transmitted in a broadcast signal of aphysical channel different from a physical channel of the broadcastsignal including the mobile service data, the service guidebootstrapping information may include a transport stream identifier ofthe broadcast signal including the service guide, an identifier of themobile service including the service guide, and a transmission sessionidentifier on an announcement channel of the service guide.

When the service guide transmission information indicates that theservice guide is transmitted to a broadcast network other than themobile broadcast network, the service guide bootstrapping informationmay include IP access information on an announcement channel of theservice guide, and a transmission session identifier on an announcementchannel of the service guide.

And, finally, when the service guide transmission information indicatesthat the service guide is transmitted through an interaction channel,the service guide bootstrapping information may include a uniformresource locator (URL) indicating an entry point location of the serviceguide.

In another aspect of the present invention, a receiving system includesa receiving unit, a first handler, and a second handler. The receivingunit receives a broadcast signal through a mobile broadcast network.Herein, the broadcast signal includes mobile service data and a firstsignaling table. And, the first signaling table includes service guidetransmission information and service guide bootstrapping information onthe mobile service data. The first handler acquires the service guidebootstrapping information based upon the service guide transmissioninformation included in the first signaling table. And, the secondhandler accesses a service guide by using the acquired service guidebootstrapping information.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description andthe following detailed description of the present invention areexemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide furtherexplanation of the invention as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a furtherunderstanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute apart of this application, illustrate embodiment(s) of the invention andtogether with the description serve to explain the principle of theinvention. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an SG being transmitted through anotherphysical channel according to the present invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates an example of an SG being transmitted through anotherbroadcast network according to the present invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates an example of an SG being transmitted throughinteraction channel according to the present invention;

FIG. 4 illustrates an example of signaling tables being included in aservice signaling channel according to the present invention;

FIG. 5 illustrates a data group structure according to an embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 6 illustrates an RS frame according to an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 7 illustrates a header structure of each M/H transport packetwithin the RS frame;

FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary M/H frame structure for receiving andtransmitting mobile service data according to the present invention;

FIG. 9 illustrates a data transmission structure for mobile servicesaccording to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 illustrates a hierarchical signaling structure according to anembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 illustrates a syntax structure of an FIC chunk according to anembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 illustrates a syntax structure of an FIC chunk header accordingto an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 illustrates a syntax structure of an FIC chunk payload accordingto an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 illustrates a syntax structure of an FIC segment headeraccording to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 illustrates a syntax structure of a service map table (SMT)according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 illustrates a syntax structure of a guide access table (GAT)section according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17 illustrates exemplary significance for eachSG_delivery_network_type field value of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 illustrates a syntax structure of SG bootstrapping informationSG_bootstrap_data( ) according to an embodiment of the presentinvention, when the SG_delivery_network_type field value is equal to‘0x00’;

FIG. 19 illustrates a syntax structure of SG bootstrapping informationSG_bootstrap_data( ) according to an embodiment of the presentinvention, when the SG_delivery_network_type field value is equal to‘0x01’;

FIG. 20 illustrates a syntax structure of SG bootstrapping informationSG_bootstrap_data( ) according to an embodiment of the presentinvention, when the SG_delivery_network_type field value is equal to‘0x02’;

FIG. 21 illustrates a syntax structure of SG bootstrapping informationSG_bootstrap_data( ) according to an embodiment of the presentinvention, when the SG_delivery_network_type field value is equal to‘0x03’;

FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 illustrate a flow chart showing process steps forperforming service guide bootstrapping according to an embodiment of thepresent invention; and

FIG. 24 illustrates a block diagram showing the structure of a receivingsystem according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of thepresent invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanyingdrawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be usedthroughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. In addition,although the terms used in the present invention are selected fromgenerally known and used terms, some of the terms mentioned in thedescription of the present invention have been selected by the applicantat his or her discretion, the detailed meanings of which are describedin relevant parts of the description herein. Furthermore, it is requiredthat the present invention is understood, not simply by the actual termsused but by the meaning of each term lying within.

Among the terms used in the description of the present invention, mainservice data correspond to data that can be received by a fixedreceiving system and may include audio/video (A/V) data. Morespecifically, the main service data may include A/V data of highdefinition (HD) or standard definition (SD) levels and may also includediverse data types required for data broadcasting. Also, the known datacorrespond to data pre-known in accordance with a pre-arranged agreementbetween the receiving system and the transmitting system.

Additionally, among the terms used in the present invention, “M/H” (orMH) corresponds to the initials of “mobile” and “handheld” andrepresents the opposite concept of a fixed-type system. Furthermore, theM/H service data may include at least one of mobile service data, andhandheld service data, and will also be referred to as “mobile servicedata” for simplicity. Herein, the mobile service data not onlycorrespond to M/H service data but may also include any type of servicedata with mobile or portable characteristics. Therefore, the mobileservice data according to the present invention are not limited only tothe M/H service data. Also, data required for mobile service accordingto the present invention will also be referred to as “mobile servicedata” for simplicity.

The above-described mobile service data may correspond to data havinginformation, such as program execution files, stock information, and soon, and may also correspond to A/V data. Most particularly, the mobileservice data may correspond to A/V data having lower resolution andlower data rate as compared to the main service data. For example, if anA/V codec that is used for a conventional main service corresponds to aMPEG-2 codec, a MPEG-4 advanced video coding (AVC) or scalable videocoding (SVC) having better image compression efficiency may be used asthe A/V codec for the mobile service. Furthermore, any type of data maybe transmitted as the mobile service data. For example, transportprotocol expert group (TPEG) data for broadcasting real-timetransportation information may be transmitted as the main service data.

Also, a data service using the mobile service data may include weatherforecast services, traffic information services, stock informationservices, viewer participation quiz programs, real-time polls andsurveys, interactive education broadcast programs, gaming services,services providing information on synopsis, character, background music,and filming sites of soap operas or series, services providinginformation on past match scores and player profiles and achievements,and services providing information on product information and programsclassified by service, medium, time, and theme enabling purchase ordersto be processed. Herein, the present invention is not limited only tothe services mentioned above. In the present invention, the transmittingsystem provides backward compatibility in the main service data so as tobe received by the conventional receiving system. Herein, the mainservice data and the mobile service data are multiplexed to the samephysical channel and then transmitted.

In the present invention, the transmitting system provides backwardcompatibility in the main service data so as to be received by theconventional receiving system. Herein, the main service data and themobile service data are multiplexed to the same physical channel andthen transmitted.

Furthermore, the transmitting system according to the present inventionperforms additional encoding on the mobile service data and inserts thedata already known by the receiving system and transmitting system(e.g., known data), thereby transmitting the processed data.

Therefore, when using the transmitting system according to the presentinvention, the receiving system may receive the mobile service dataduring a mobile state and may also receive the mobile service data withstability despite various distortion and noise occurring within thechannel.

Herein, the transmitting system corresponds to one mobile broadcaststation. And, the mobile broadcast station transmits main service dataand mobile service data to each receiving system (also referred to as areceiver or a terminal) by using a physical channel. More specifically,each mobile broadcast station uses a 6 MHz VSB transmitter to transmitthe main service data along with the mobile service data.

At this point, a service guide (SG) delivering announcement informationwith respect to the mobile service data may be transmitted by using avariety of methods.

In the description of the present invention, the signaling informationrequired for receiving (or accessing) the SG will be referred to as aservice guide bootstrapping information. More specifically, the serviceguide bootstrapping information is information required to bootstrap theSG. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the serviceguide bootstrapping information is signaled to a guide access table(GAT).

For example, the service guide (SG) may be transmitted through the samephysical channel as that of the corresponding mobile service data (i.e.,through the same mobile broadcast) along with the corresponding mobileservice data. In this case, the service guide bootstrapping informationrequired for accessing the SG is signaled to the GAT, which istransmitted to the physical channel.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, the serviceguide may be transmitted through a physical channel other than thephysical channel through which the corresponding mobile service data arebeing transmitted. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, a market serviceguide provider may gather (or collect) information for the service guidebeing provided from each mobile broadcast station (e.g., scheduleinformation on mobile services) so as to configure a consolidatedservice guide (SG). Thereafter, the market service guide provider maytransmit the configured consolidated SG through a separate channel(e.g., a 6 MHz-band VSB transmitter). At this point, the market serviceguide provider holds a physical channel for a separate mobile broadcastsignal (i.e., a physical tuning channel (PTC) spectrum). And, the marketservice guide provider gathers and combines the information for serviceguides provided from each mobile broadcast station, thereby producing aconsolidated SG. Thereafter, the consolidated SG is transmitted to eachreceiving system through the physical channel held by the market serviceguide provider. In this case, the present invention transmits theservice guide bootstrapping information, which is used to enable thereceiving system to receive and process the consolidated SG, through thesame physical channel as that of the respective mobile service data.More specifically, when the service guide for the mobile service data istransmitted through a physical channel other than that through which themobile service data are transmitted, the service guide bootstrappinginformation, which enables the receiving system to receive and processthe corresponding service guide, is signaled to the GAT, so that theservice guide bootstrapping information can be transmitted along withthe respective mobile service data through the same physical channel.

According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, instead ofbeing transmitted via a mobile broadcast network, the service guide maybe transmitted through a different broadcast network (e.g., a broadcastnetwork of a different IP-base). For example, as shown in FIG. 2, in ahybrid system consisting of a combination of a terrestrial mobile systemaccording to the present invention and a digital video broadcastingsatellite services to handhelds (DVB-SH) system, which is used forEuropean portable (or mobile) digital satellite TV broadcasting, DVB-SHoperators (e.g., DVB-SH service providers) may gather and combine theinformation for service guides (e.g., schedule information on thecorresponding mobile service) provided from a mobile broadcast station,so as to transmit the combined information to each receiving systemthrough a DVB-SH network (i.e., satellite).

At this point, each mobile broadcast station transmits main service dataand mobile service data to each receiving system by using a physicalchannel assigned to the respective broadcast station. More specifically,a broadcast signal including the main service data and the mobileservice data is transmitted through a mobile (M/H) broadcast networkaccording to the present invention. In this case, the present inventiontransmits the service guide bootstrapping information, which is used toenable the receiving system to receive the SG transmitted from adifferent broadcast network and process the received SG, through thesame physical channel as that of the respective mobile service data.

More specifically, when the service guide is transmitted through adifferent physical channel, instead of being transmitted through themobile broadcast network through which the corresponding mobile servicedata are transmitted, the service guide bootstrapping information, whichenables the receiving system to receive and process the correspondingservice guide, is signaled to the GAT, so that the service guidebootstrapping information can be transmitted along with the respectivemobile service data through the same physical channel.

According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, theservice guide may be transmitted through a two-way (or bi-directional orinteraction) channel. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, in a hybridsystem configured by a combination of a terrestrial mobile system and atwo-way channel system (e.g., a cellular system), a two-way channel SGprovider (e.g., an operator or server manager equipped with a two-waychannel network, such as a cellular network operator) may gather andcombine the information for service guides (e.g., schedule informationon the corresponding mobile service) provided from a mobile broadcaststation, so as to transmit the combined information to each receivingsystem through a two-way channel. At this point, each mobile broadcaststation transmits main service data and mobile service data to eachreceiving system by using a physical channel assigned to the respectivebroadcast station. More specifically, a broadcast signal including themain service data and the mobile service data is transmitted through amobile (M/H) broadcast network according to the present invention. Inthis case, the present invention transmits the service guidebootstrapping information, which is used to enable the receiving systemto receive the SG transmitted from the two-way channel and process thereceived SG, through the same physical channel as that of the respectivemobile service data. More specifically, when the service guide istransmitted through a two-way channel, instead of being transmittedthrough the mobile (i.e., M/H) broadcast network through which thecorresponding mobile service data are transmitted, the service guidebootstrapping information, which enables the receiving system to receiveand process the corresponding service guide, is signaled to the GAT, sothat the service guide bootstrapping information can be transmittedalong with the respective mobile service data through the same physicalchannel.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the transmittingsystem and the receiving system operate two different types of datachannels: an RS frame data channel for transmitting contents and a fastinformation channel (FIC) data channel for acquisiting service. Morespecifically, the present invention can signal mapping informationbetween an ensemble and a mobile service by using an FIC chunk, and candivide and transmit the FIC chunk into FIC segment units, therebyenabling a receiving system to perform quick service acquisition.

More specifically, in the transmitting system (e.g., mobile broadcaststation), the mobile service data (e.g., A/V steaming) are packetizedbased upon a real time protocol (RTP) method. The RTP packet is thenpacketized once again based upon a user datagram protocol (UDP) method.Thereafter, the RTP/UDP packet is in turn packetized based upon an IPmethod, thereby being packetized into RTP/UDP/IP packet data. In thedescription of the present invention, the packetized RTP/UDP/IP packetdata will be referred to as an IP datagram for simplicity.

Furthermore, service information for receiving mobile services may beprovided in the form of a signaling table. And, a service signalingchannel transmitting such signaling table is packetized based upon a UDPmethod. And, the packetized UDP data are then packetized based upon anIP method, thereby being packetized into UDP/IP data. In the descriptionof the present invention, the packetized UDP/IP packet data will also bereferred to as an IP datagram for simplicity. According to an embodimentof the present invention, the service signaling channel is encapsulatedinto an IP datagram having a well-known destination IP address and awell-known destination UDP port number.

In the transmitting system (e.g., mobile broadcast station), an RS frameis formed by gathering the IP datagrams of the mobile service data andthe service signaling channel, and data of the RS frame are distributedto a plurality of data groups. Thereafter, the distributed datamodulated by using a predetermined transmission method, e.g., a VSBtransmission method, thereby transmitting the modulated data. Accordingto the embodiment of the present invention, an FIC segment is includedin each of the data groups. The relation between the RS Frame and theFIC segment will be described in detail in a later process.

More specifically, one RS frame includes an IP datagram of mobileservice data for at least one or more mobile services and an IP datagramof a service signaling channel for receiving the mobile service data.

Also, the concept of an ensemble is applied in an embodiment of thepresent invention, so as to define a collection of services. Oneensemble (also referred to as an M/H ensemble) has the same QoS and isencoded with the same FEC code. Also, each ensemble has a uniqueensemble identifier (i.e., ensemble id) and corresponds to a correctionof consecutive RS frames having the same FEC code. At this point, eachRS frame in encapsulated to transport packets including an IP stream(i.e., IP datagram). In other words, the RS frame corresponds to atwo-dimensional data frame through which an ensemble is RS-CRC encoded.

FIG. 4 illustrates a structure of a service signaling channel accordingto an embodiment of the present invention. Herein, FIG. 4 illustratesthe structure of a service signaling channel in an RS frame belonging toensemble K. According to the embodiment of the present invention, amonga service map table (SMT), a guide access table (GAT), a cellinformation table (CIT), a service labeling table (SLT), and a ratingregion table (RRT), the present invention transmits at least onesignaling table, as shown in FIG. 4, through the service signalingchannel. Herein, the signaling tables presented in the embodiment of thepresent invention are merely examples for facilitating the understandingof the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is notlimited only to the exemplary signaling tables that can be transmittedthrough the service signaling channel.

The SMT provides signaling information on ensemble levels. Also, eachSMT provides IP access information for each mobile service belonging tothe corresponding ensemble including each SMT. Furthermore, the SMTprovides IP stream component level information required for thecorresponding mobile service.

The RRT transmits information on region and consultation organs forprogram ratings. More specifically, the RRT provides content advisoryrating information.

The GAT provides information on SG providers, which transmit the serviceguides. Also, the GAT provides service guide bootstrapping informationrequired for accessing the SG. The service guide bootstrappinginformation is provided for each SG provider. And, the service guidebootstrapping information varies depending upon the method fortransmitting the SG. Herein, the service guide bootstrapping informationincludes access information on the SG and may further include atransmission session identifier of the announcement channel.

The CIT provides channel information of each cell, which corresponds tothe frequency domain of a broadcast signal. Herein, a cell refers to ascope affected (or influenced) by a transmitter based upon a physicalfrequency in a multi-frequency network (MFN) environment (or condition).More specifically, the CIT provides information on a carrier wavefrequency of an adjacent cell in the current transmitter (ortransmitting system). Therefore, based upon the CIT information, areceiver (or receiving system) can travel from one transmitter's (orexciter's) coverage area to another.

The SLT provides minimum required information for an exclusive usage ofa channel scan process. More specifically, according to the embodimentof the present invention, other than the SMT, by using the SLT for theexclusive usage of the channel scan process, so as to configure a set ofminimum information for the channel scan process, the channel scanningspeed may be increased.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, each signalingtable is divided into at least one section. Then, each section isencapsulated to a UDP/IP header, thereby being transmitted through theservice signaling channel. In this case, the number of UDP/IP packetsbeing transmitted through the service signaling channel may vary basedupon the number of signaling tables being transmitted through theservice signaling channel and the number of sections in each signalingtable.

At this point, all UDP/IP packets transmitted through the servicesignaling channel have the same number of well-known target IP addressesand well-known target UDP port numbers. For example, when it is assumedthat the SMT, RRT, and GAT are transmitted through the service signalingchannel, the target IP address and target UDP port number of all UDP/IPpackets transmitting the SMT, RRT, and GAT are identical to one another.Furthermore, the target IP address and the target UDP port numberrespectively correspond to well-known values, i.e., values pre-known bythe receiving system based upon an agreement between the receivingsystem and the transmitting system.

Therefore, the identification of each signaling table included in theservice signaling data is performed by a table identifier. The tableidentifier may correspond to a table_id field existing in thecorresponding signaling table or in the header of the correspondingsignaling table section. And, when required, identification may beperformed by further referring to a table_id_extension field.

Data Format Structure

The data structure used in the mobile broadcasting technology accordingto the embodiment of the present invention may include a data groupstructure and an RS frame structure, which will now be described indetail.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary structure of a data group according tothe present invention. FIG. 5 shows an example of dividing a data groupaccording to the data structure of the present invention into 10 M/Hblocks (i.e., M/H block 1 (B1) to M/H block 10 (B10)). In this example,each M/H block has the length of 16 segments. Referring to FIG. 5, onlythe RS parity data are allocated to portions of the 5 segments beforethe M/H block 1 (B1) and the 5 segments following the M/H block 10(B10). The RS parity data are excluded in regions A to D of the datagroup. More specifically, when it is assumed that one data group isdivided into regions A, B, C, and D, each M/H block may be included inany one of region A to region D depending upon the characteristic ofeach M/H block within the data group.

Herein, the data group is divided into a plurality of regions to be usedfor different purposes. More specifically, a region of the main servicedata having no interference or a very low interference level may beconsidered to have a more resistant (or stronger) receiving performanceas compared to regions having higher interference levels. Additionally,when using a system inserting and transmitting known data in the datagroup, wherein the known data are known based upon an agreement betweenthe transmitting system and the receiving system, and when consecutivelylong known data are to be periodically inserted in the mobile servicedata, the known data having a predetermined length may be periodicallyinserted in the region having no interference from the main service data(i.e., a region wherein the main service data are not mixed). However,due to interference from the main service data, it is difficult toperiodically insert known data and also to insert consecutively longknown data to a region having interference from the main service data.

In the data group, the data included in a RS frame will be referred toas “mobile service data” for simplicity. The RS frame data (or the dataof the RS frame) will be described in more detail in a later process.

Referring to FIG. 5, M/H block 4 (B4) to M/H block 7 (B7) correspond toregions without interference of the main service data. M/H block 4 (B4)to M/H block 7 (B7) within the data group shown in FIG. 5 correspond toa region where no interference from the main service data occurs. Inthis example, a long known data sequence is inserted at both thebeginning and end of each M/H block. In the description of the presentinvention, the region including M/H block 4 (B4) to M/H block 7 (B7)will be referred to as “region A (=B4+B5+B6+B7)”. As described above,when the data group includes region A having a long known data sequenceinserted at both the beginning and end of each M/H block, the receivingsystem is capable of performing equalization by using the channelinformation that can be obtained from the known data. Therefore, thestrongest equalizing performance may be yielded (or obtained) from oneof region A to region D.

In the example of the data group shown in FIG. 5, M/H block 3 (B3) andM/H block 8 (B8) correspond to a region having little interference fromthe main service data. Herein, a long known data sequence is inserted inonly one side of each M/H block B3 and B8. More specifically, due to theinterference from the main service data, a long known data sequence isinserted at the end of M/H block 3 (B3), and another long known datasequence is inserted at the beginning of M/H block 8 (B8). In thepresent invention, the region including M/H block 3 (B3) and M/H block 8(B8) will be referred to as “region B (=B3+B8)”. As described above,when the data group includes region B having a long known data sequenceinserted at only one side (beginning or end) of each M/H block, thereceiving system is capable of performing equalization by using thechannel information that can be obtained from the known data. Therefore,a stronger equalizing performance as compared to region C/D may beyielded (or obtained).

Referring to FIG. 5, M/H block 2 (B2) and M/H block 9 (B9) correspond toa region having more interference from the main service data as comparedto region B. A long known data sequence cannot be inserted in any sideof M/H block 2 (B2) and M/H block 9 (B9). Herein, the region includingM/H block 2 (B2) and M/H block 9 (B9) will be referred to as “region C(=B2+B9)”. Finally, in the example shown in FIG. 5, M/H block 1 (B1) andM/H block 10 (B10) correspond to a region having more interference fromthe main service data as compared to region C. Similarly, a long knowndata sequence cannot be inserted in any side of M/H block 1 (B1) and M/Hblock 10 (B10). Herein, the region including M/H block 1 (B1) and M/Hblock 10 (B10) will be referred to as “region D (=B1+B10)”. Since regionC/D is spaced further apart from the known data sequence, when thechannel environment undergoes frequent and abrupt changes, the receivingperformance of region C/D may be deteriorated.

Additionally, the data group includes a signaling information areawherein signaling information is assigned (or allocated). In the presentinvention, the signaling information area may start from the 1^(st)segment of the 4^(th) M/H block (B4) to a portion of the 2^(nd) segment.According to an embodiment of the present invention, the signalinginformation area for inserting signaling information may start from the1^(st) segment of the 4^(th) M/H block (B4) to a portion of the 2^(nd)segment. More specifically, 276(=207+69) bytes of the 4^(th) M/H block(B4) in each data group are assigned as the signaling information area.In other words, the signaling information area consists of 207 bytes ofthe 1^(st) segment and the first 69 bytes of the 2^(nd) segment of the4^(th) M/H block (B4). The 1^(st) segment of the 4^(th) M/H block (B4)corresponds to the 17^(th) or 173^(rd) segment of a VSB field.

Herein, the signaling data transmitted through the signaling informationarea may be identified by two different types of channel data: atransmission parameter channel (TPC) data and a fast information channel(FIC) data.

Also, the TPC data includes parameters that are mostly used in aphysical layer module. And, since the TPC data are transmitted withoutbeing interleaved, the TPC data may be accessed by slot unit in thereceiving system. The FIC data are provided in order to enable thereceiving system to perform fast service acquisition. Herein, the FICdata include cross layer information between a physical layer and anupper layer. The FIC data are interleaved in sub-frame units and thentransmitted.

For example, when the data group includes 6 known data sequences, asshown in FIG. 5, the signaling information area is located between thefirst known data sequence and the second known data sequence. Morespecifically, the first known data sequence is inserted in the last 2segments of the 3^(rd) M/H block (B3), and the second known datasequence in inserted in the 2^(nd) and 3^(rd) segments of the 4^(th) M/Hblock (B4). Furthermore, the 3^(rd) to 6^(th) known data sequences arerespectively inserted in the last 2 segments of each of the 4^(th),5^(th), 6^(th), and 7^(th) M/H blocks (B4, B5, B6, and B7). The 1^(st)and 3^(rd) to 6^(th) known data sequences are spaced apart by 16segments.

FIG. 6 illustrates an RS frame according to an embodiment of the presentinvention.

The RS frame is received for each M/H frame in a condition where thereceiving system is switched to a time-slicing mode.

The RS frame according to an embodiment of the present invention isconfigured of multiple M/H transport packets (TPs). Each M/H TP consistsof a 2-byte M/H header and a (N-2)-byte M/H payload.

At this point, one M/H TP including an M/H header can not reach N bytes.In this case, stuffing bytes can be allocated to the other payload partof the corresponding M/H TP. For example, after the service signalingchannel is allocated to one M/H TP, the length of the M/H TP includingthe M/H header is N-20 bytes, stuffing bytes can be allocated to theother 20 bytes.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating examples of fields allocated to the M/Hheader region within the M/H TP according to the present invention.Examples of the fields include type_indicator field, error_indicatorfield, stuff_indicator field, and pointer field.

The type_indicator field can allocate 3 bits, for example, andrepresents a type of data allocated to payload within the correspondingM/H TP.

The error_indicator field can allocate 1 bit, for example, andrepresents whether the corresponding M/H TP has an error. For example,if the error_indicator field has a value of 0, it means that there is noerror in the corresponding M/H TP. If the error_indicator field has avalue of 1, it means that there may be an error in the corresponding M/HTP.

The stuff_indicator field can allocate 1 bit, for example, andrepresents whether stuffing byte exists in payload of the correspondingM/H TP. For example, if the stuff_indicator field has a value of 0, itmeans that there is no stuffing byte in the corresponding M/H TP. If thestuff_indicator field has a value of 1, it means that stuffing byteexists in the corresponding M/H TP.

The pointer field can allocate 11 bits, for example, and representsposition information where new data (i.e., new IP datagram) starts inthe corresponding M/H TP. For example, if IP datagram for mobile service1 and IP datagram for mobile service 2 are allocated to the first M/H TPwithin the RS frame, the pointer field value represents the startposition of the IP datagram for mobile service 2 within the M/H TP.Also, if there is no new data in the corresponding M/H TP, thecorresponding field value is expressed as a maximum value exemplarily.According to the embodiment of the present invention, since 11 bits areallocated to the pointer field, if 2047 is expressed as the pointerfield value, it means that there is no new data in the packet. The pointwhere the pointer field value is 0 can be varied depending on thetype_indicator field value and the stuff_indicator field value.

It is to be understood that the order, the position, and the meaning ofthe fields allocated to the M/H header within the M/H TP illustrated inFIG. 7 are exemplarily illustrated for understanding of the presentinvention. Since the order, the position and the meaning of the fieldsallocated to the M/H header within the M/H TP and the number ofadditionally allocated fields can easily be modified by those skilled inthe art, the present invention will not be limited to the above example.

The M/H payload of the M/H TP may include at least one of an IP datagramof mobile service data and an IP datagram of a service signalingchannel.

More specifically, one RS frame includes an IP datagram of each mobileservice data set. Also, an IP datagram of a service signaling channel isincluded in each of the RS frames. According to an embodiment of thepresent invention, the IP datagram of the service signaling channelcomprises a well-known IP destination address and a well-knowndestination UDP port number. And, the IP datagram is included in the RSframe so as to be received.

An IP datagram of the service signaling channel includes at least one ormore signaling tables. As shown in FIG. 4, the IP datagram of theservice signaling channel may also include at least one of the SMT, GAT,CIT, SLT, and RRT. At this point, the IP datagrams of the servicesignaling channel have the same well-known IP address and the samewell-known UDP port number.

The RS frame of FIG. 6 includes 3 different types of IP datagram (i.e.,IP datagram 1, IP datagram 2, and IP datagram 3). And, herein, one ofthe IP datagrams corresponds to an IP datagram for the service signalingchannel. Each of the remaining IP datagrams may correspond to an IPdatagram of the mobile service data or to an IP datagram of the serviceguide.

In the transmitting system, RS-encoding is performed on the RS frame ina column direction, and CRC-encoding is performed on the RS frame in arow direction. Then, the processed RS frame is allocated to thecorresponding regions within multiple data groups, thereby beingtransmitted. In the description of the present invention, all of thedata included in the RS frame will be referred to as mobile service datafor simplicity.

Data Transmission Structure

FIG. 8 illustrates a structure of an M/H frame for transmitting andreceiving mobile service data according to the present invention. In theexample shown in FIG. 8, one M/H frame consists of 5 sub-frames, whereineach sub-frame includes 16 slots. In this case, the M/H frame accordingto the present invention includes 5 sub-frames and 80 slots. Also, in apacket level, one slot is configured of 156 data packets (i.e.,transport stream packets), and in a symbol level, one slot is configuredof 156 data segments. Herein, the size of one slot corresponds to onehalf (½) of a VSB field. More specifically, since one 207-byte datapacket has the same amount of data as a data segment, a data packetprior to being interleaved may also be used as a data segment. At thispoint, two VSB fields are grouped to form a VSB frame.

One VSB frame consists of 2 VSB fields (i.e., an odd field and an evenfield). Herein, each VSB field includes a field synchronization segmentand 312 data segments. The slot corresponds to a basic time unit formultiplexing the mobile service data and the main service data.

Herein, one slot may either include the mobile service data or beconfigured only of the main service data. If the first 118 data packetswithin the slot correspond to a data group, the remaining 38 datapackets become the main service data packets. In another example, whenno data group exists in a slot, the corresponding slot is configured of156 main service data packets.

Meanwhile, the data within one RS frame may be assigned either to all ofregions A/B/C/D within the corresponding data group, or to at least oneof regions A/B/C/D. In the embodiment of the present invention, the datawithin one RS frame may be assigned either to all of regions A/B/C/D, orto at least one of regions A/B and regions C/D. If the mobile servicedata are assigned to the latter case (i.e., one of regions A/B andregions C/D), the RS frame being assigned to regions A/B and the RSframe being assigned to regions C/D within the corresponding data groupare different from one another.

According to the embodiment of the present invention, the RS frame beingassigned to regions A/B within the corresponding data group will bereferred to as a “primary RS frame”, and the RS frame being assigned toregions C/D within the corresponding data group will be referred to as a“secondary RS frame”, for simplicity. Also, the primary RS frame and thesecondary RS frame form (or configure) one parade. More specifically,when the data within one RS frame are assigned either to all of regionsA/B/C/D within the corresponding data group, one parade transmits one RSframe. Conversely, when the data within one RS frame are assigned eitherto at least one of regions A/B and regions C/D, one parade may transmitup to 2 RS frames. More specifically, the RS frame mode indicateswhether a parade transmits one RS frame, or whether the parade transmitstwo RS frames. Such RS frame mode is transmitted as the TPC data. Table1 below shows an example of the RS frame mode.

TABLE 1 RS frame mode (2 bits) Description 00 There is only one primaryRS frame for all group regions 01 There are two separate RS frames.Primary RS frame for group regions A and B Secondary RS frame for groupregions C and D 10 Reserved 11 Reserved

Table 1 illustrates an example of allocating 2 bits in order to indicatethe RS frame mode. For example, referring to Table 1, when the RS framemode value is equal to ‘00’, this indicates that one parade transmitsone RS frame. And, when the RS frame mode value is equal to ‘01’, thisindicates that one parade transmits two RS frames, i.e., the primary RSframe and the secondary RS frame. More specifically, when the RS framemode value is equal to ‘01’, data of the primary RS frame for regionsA/B are assigned and transmitted to regions A/B of the correspondingdata group. Similarly, data of the secondary RS frame for regions C/Dare assigned and transmitted to regions C/D of the corresponding datagroup.

As described in the assignment of data groups, the parades are alsoassigned to be spaced as far apart from one another as possible withinthe sub-frame. Thus, the system can be capable of responding promptlyand effectively to any burst error that may occur within a sub-frame.

Furthermore, the method of assigning parades may be identically appliedto all M/H frames or differently applied to each M/H frame. According tothe embodiment of the present invention, the parades may be assigneddifferently for each M/H frame and identically for all sub-frames withinan M/H frame. More specifically, the M/H frame structure may vary by M/Hframe units. Thus, an ensemble rate may be adjusted on a more frequentand flexible basis.

That is, the concept of an M/H ensemble is applied in the embodiment ofthe present invention, thereby defining a collection (or group) ofservices. Each M/H ensemble carries the same QoS and is coded with thesame FEC code. Also, each M/H ensemble has the same unique identifier(i.e., ensemble ID) and corresponds to consecutive RS frames.Furthermore, an ensemble has a unique identifier (i.e., ensemble id),and the ensemble corresponds to a collection of consecutive RS frameswith the same FEC codes. At this point, each RS frame is encapsulated totransport packets including IP streams. In other words, the RS framecorresponds to a two-dimensional data frame through which an ensemble isRS-CRC encoded.

FIG. 9 illustrates a data transmission structure in a physical layeraccording to an embodiment of the present invention. More specifically,FIG. 9 shows an example of FIC data being included in each data groupand transmitted. As described above, an M/H frame for approximately0.968 seconds is divided into 5 sub-frames, wherein data groupscorresponding to multiple ensembles exist in combination within eachsub-frame. Also, the data groups corresponding to each ensemble areinterleaved in M/H frame units, so as to configure an RS frame belongingto one ensemble. In FIG. 9, 2 ensembles (wherein NoG=4 and NoG=3) existin each sub-frame. Furthermore, a predetermined portion (e.g., 37bytes/data group) of each data group is used for the purpose ofseparately delivering encoded FIC data apart from the RS frame datachannel. The FIC region assigned to each data group consists of one FICsegment. Herein, each of the FIC segments is interleaved in sub-frameunits. For example, RS-encoding and SCCC encoding processes are appliedto the RS frame data, and RS encoding and PCCC encoding processes areapplied to the FIC data. Also, as well as the FIC data, the RS encodingand PCCC encoding processes are applied to the TPC data. Morespecifically, (187+P,187)-RS encoding process is applied to the RS framedata, (51,37)-RS encoding process is applied to the FIC data, and(18,10)-RS encoding process is applied to the TPC. Herein, P is thenumber of parity bytes.

Hierarchical Signaling Structure

FIG. 10 illustrates a hierarchical signaling structure according to anembodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 10, the mobilebroadcasting technology according to the embodiment of the presentinvention adopts a signaling method using FIC and SMT (Service MapTable). In the description of the present invention, the signalingstructure will be referred to as a hierarchical signaling structure.

More specifically, FIG. 10 illustrates a hierarchical signalingstructure that provides data required for service acquisition through anFIC chunk and a service map table (SMT), among IP-level mobile servicesignaling channels.

As shown in FIG. 10, the FIC chunk uses its fast characteristic, so asto deliver a mapping relation between a service and an ensemble to thereceiving system. More specifically, the FIC chunk quickly locates (orfinds) an ensemble that can deliver a service requested by the receivingsystem, thereby providing the receiving system with signaling data thatcan enable the receiving system to swiftly receive RS frames of arespective ensemble.

Fast Information Channel (FIC)

The receiving system according to the present invention adopts the fastinformation channel (FIC) for a faster (or swifter) access to a servicethat is currently being broadcasted.

FIG. 11 illustrates a syntax structure of an FIC chunk that maps therelation between a mobile service and an ensemble through the FIC.

Herein, the FIC chunk consists of a 5-byte FIC chunk header and an FICchunk payload having variable-length.

FIG. 12 illustrates a syntax structure of an FIC chunk header accordingto an embodiment of the present invention.

Herein, the FIC chunk header signals a non-backward compatible majorprotocol version change in a corresponding FIC chunk and also signals abackward compatible minor protocol version change. Furthermore, the FICchunk header also signals the length for an extension of an FIC chunkheader, the length for an extension of an ensemble loop header, and thelength for an extension of a mobile service loop that can be generatedby a minor protocol version change.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a receiver (orreceiving system) that can adopt the corresponding minor protocolversion change may process the corresponding extension field, whereas alegacy (or conventional) receiver that cannot adopt the correspondingminor protocol version change may skip the corresponding extension fieldby using each of the corresponding length information. For example, incase of a receiving system that can accept the corresponding minorprotocol version change, the directions given in the correspondingextension field may be known. Furthermore, the receiving system mayperform operations in accordance with the directions given in thecorresponding extension field.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a minor protocolversion change in the FIC chunk is performed by inserting additionalfields at the respective end portion of the FIC chunk header, theensemble loop header, and the mobile service loop included in theprevious minor protocol version FIC chunk. According to an embodiment ofthe present invention, in any other case, or when the length of theadditional fields cannot be expressed (or indicated) by each extensionlength within the FIC chunk header, or when a specific field within theFIC chunk payload is missing (or cannot be found), or when the number ofbits being assigned to the corresponding field or the definition of thecorresponding field is changed (or altered), the major protocol versionof the corresponding FIC chunk is updated.

Also, the FIC chunk header signals whether the data of a correspondingFIC chink payload carry mapping information between an ensemble and amobile service within the current M/H frame, or whether the data of acorresponding FIC chink payload carry mapping information between anensemble and a mobile service within the next M/H frame. Furthermore,the FIC chunk header also signals the number of transport stream IDs ofa mobile service through which the current FIC chunk is beingtransmitted and the number of ensembles being transmitted through thecorresponding mobile service.

Accordingly, for this, the FIC chunk header may include anFIC_major_protocol_version field, an FIC_minor_protocol_version field,an FIC_chunk_header_extension_length field, anensemble_loop_header_extension_length field, anM/H_service_loop_extension_length field, a current_next_indicator field,a transport_stream_id field, and a num_ensembles field.

The FIC_major_protocol_version field corresponds to a 2-bit unsignedinteger field that represents the major version level of an FIC chunksyntax. A change in the major version level shall indicate a change in anon-backward-compatible level. When the FIC_major_protocol_version fieldis updated, legacy (or conventional) receivers, which can process theprior major protocol version of an FIC chunk protocol, shall avoidprocessing the FIC chunk.

The FIC_minor_protocol_version field corresponds to a 3-bit unsignedinteger field that represents the minor version level of an FIC chunksyntax. When it is assumed that the major version level remains thesame, a change in the minor version level shall indicate a change in abackward-compatible level. More specifically, when theFIC_minor_protocol_version field is updated, legacy (or conventional)receivers, which can process the same major version of the FIC chunkprotocol, may process a portion of the FIC chunk.

The FIC_Chunk_header_extension_length field corresponds to a 3-bitunsigned integer field identifying the length of FIC chunk headerextension bytes, which are generated by the minor protocol versionupdate of the corresponding FIC chunk. Herein, the extension bytes areappended (or added) at the end of the corresponding FIC chunk header.

The ensemble_header_extension_length field corresponds to a 3-bitunsigned integer field identifying the length of the ensemble headerextension bytes, which are generated by the minor protocol versionupdate of the corresponding FIC chunk. Herein, the extension bytes areappended (or added) at the end of the corresponding ensemble loopheader.

Also, the M/H_service_loop_extension_length field corresponds to a 4-bitunsigned integer field identifying the length of the ensemble headerextension bytes, which are generated by the minor protocol versionupdate of the M/H service loop. Herein, the extension bytes are appended(or added) at the end of the corresponding M/H service loop.

For example, it is assumed that the FIC chunk includes 2 ensembles(i.e., ensemble 0 and ensemble 1). More specifically, it is assumed thattwo mobile services are transmitted through ensemble 0, and one mobileservice is transmitted through ensemble 1. At this point, when the minorprotocol version of the FIC chunk is changed, and the FIC chunk headeris expanded by 1 byte, the FIC_chunk_header_extension_length field ismarked as ‘001’. In this case, a 1-byte expansion field (i.e.,FIC_Chunk_header_extension_bytes field) is added at the end of the FICchunk header. Also, the legacy receiver skips the 1-byte expansionfield, which is added at the end of the FIC chunk header, withoutprocessing the corresponding expansion field.

Additionally, when the ensemble loop header within the FIC chunk isexpanded by 2 bytes, the ensemble_loop_header_extension_length field ismarked as ‘010’. In this case, a 2-byte expansion field (i.e.,Ensemble_loop_header_extension_bytes field) is respectively added at theend of the ensemble 0 loop header and at the end of the ensemble 1 loopheader. Also, the legacy receiver skips the 2-byte expansion fields,which are respectively added at the end of the ensemble 0 loop headerand at the end of the ensemble 1 loop header, without processing thecorresponding 2-byte expansion fields.

Furthermore, when the mobile service loop of the FIC chunk is expandedby 1 byte, the M/H_service_loop_extension_length field is marked as‘001’. In this case, a 1-byte expansion field (i.e.,M/H_service_loop_extension_bytes field) is respectively added at the endof 2 mobile service loops being transmitted through ensemble 0 loop andat the end of 1 mobile service loop being transmitted through theensemble 1 loop. And, the legacy receiver skips the 1-byte expansionfields, which are respectively added at the end of 2 mobile serviceloops being transmitted through ensemble 0 loop and at the end of 1mobile service loop being transmitted through the ensemble 1 loop,without processing the corresponding 1-byte expansion fields.

As described above, when the FIC_minor_protocol version field ischanged, a legacy (or conventional) receiver (i.e., a receiver thatcannot adopt the minor protocol version change in the corresponding FICchunk) processes the fields apart from the extension field. Thereafter,the legacy receiver uses the FIC_chunk_header_extension_length field,the ensemble_loop_header_extension_length field, and theM/H_service_loop_extension_length field, so as to skip the correspondingexpansion fields without processing the corresponding fields. When usinga receiving system that can adopt the corresponding minor protocolversion change of the FIC chunk, each length field is used to processeven the corresponding expansion field.

The current_next_indicator field corresponds to a 1-bit indicator,which, when set to ‘1’, indicates that the corresponding FIC chunk iscurrently applicable. Alternatively, when the current_next_indicatorfield is set to ‘0’, the current_next_indicator field indicates that thecorresponding FIC chunk will be applicable for the next M/H frame.Herein, when the current_next_indicator field is set to ‘0’, the mostrecent version of the FIC chunk being transmitted with thecurrent_next_indicator field set to ‘1’ shall be currently applicable.More specifically, when the current_next_indicator field value is set to‘1’, this indicates that the corresponding FIC chunk transmits thesignaling data of the current M/H frame. Further, when thecurrent_next_indicator field value is set to ‘0’, this indicates thatthe corresponding FIC chunk transmits the signaling data of the next M/Hframe. When reconfiguration occurs, wherein the mapping informationbetween the ensemble within the current M/H frame and the mobile servicediffers from the ensemble within the next M/H frame and the mobileservice, the M/H frame prior to reconfiguration is referred to as thecurrent M/H frame, and the M/H frame following reconfiguration isreferred to as the next M/H frame.

The transport_stream_id field corresponds to a 16-bit unsigned integernumber field, which serves as a label for identifying the correspondingM/H broadcast. The value of the corresponding transport_stream_id fieldshall be equal to the value of the transport_stream_id field included inthe program association table (PAT) within the MPEG-2 transport streamof a main ATSC broadcast.

The num_ensembles field corresponds to an 8-bit unsigned integer field,which indicates the number of M/H ensembles carried through thecorresponding physical transmission channel.

FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary syntax structure of an FIC chunkpayload according to an embodiment of the present invention. For eachensemble corresponding to the num_ensembles field value within the FICchunk header of FIG. 12, the FIC chunk payload includes configurationinformation of each ensemble and information on mobile services beingtransmitted through each ensemble.

The FIC chunk payload consists of an ensemble loop and a mobile serviceloop below the ensemble loop. The FIC chunk payload enables the receiverto determine through which ensemble a requested (or desired) mobileservice is being transmitted. (This process is performed via mappingbetween the ensemble_id field and the M/H_service_id field.) Thus, thereceiver may receive RS frames belonging to the corresponding ensemble.

In order to do so, the ensemble loop of the FIC chunk payload mayinclude an ensemble_id field, an ensemble_protocol_version field, anSLT_ensemble_indicator field, a GAT_ensemble_indicator field, anMH_service_signaling_channel_version field, and a num_M/H_servicesfield, which are collectively repeated as many times as thenum_ensembles field value. The mobile service loop may include anMH_service_id field, a multi_ensemble_service field, anMH_service_status field, and an SP_indicator field, which arecollectively repeated as many times as the num_M/H_services field.

The ensemble_id field corresponds to an 8-bit unsigned integer field,which indicates a unique identifier of the corresponding ensemble. Forexample, the ensemble_id field may be assigned with values within therange ‘0x00’ to ‘0x7F’. The ensemble_id field group (or associate) themobile services with the respective ensemble. Herein, it is preferablethat the value of the ensemble_id field is derived from the parade_idfield carried (or transmitted) through the TPC data. If thecorresponding ensemble is transmitted through a primary RS frame, themost significant bit is set to ‘0’, and the remaining least significantbits are used as the parade_id field value of the corresponding parade.Meanwhile, if the corresponding ensemble is transmitted through asecondary RS frame, the most significant bit is set to ‘0’, and theremaining least significant bits are used as the parade_id field valueof the corresponding parade.

The ensemble_protocol_version field corresponds to a 5-bit field, whichspecifies a version of the corresponding ensemble structure.

The SLT_ensemble_indicator field is a 1-bit field, which indicateswhether or not the SLT is being transmitted to the service signalingchannel of the corresponding ensemble. For example, when theSLT_ensemble_indicator field value is equal to ‘1’, this may indicatethat the SLT is being transmitted to the service signaling channel. Onthe other hand, when the SLT_ensemble_indicator field value is equal to‘0’, this may indicate that the SLT is not being transmitted.

The GAT_ensemble_indicator field is also a 1-bit field, which indicateswhether or not the GAT is being transmitted to the service signalingchannel of the corresponding ensemble. For example, when theGAT_ensemble_indicator field value is equal to ‘1’, this may indicatethat the GAT is being transmitted to the service signaling channel. Onthe other hand, when the GAT_ensemble_indicator field value is equal to‘0’, this may indicate that the GAT is not being transmitted.

The MH_service_signaling_channel_version field corresponds to a 5-bitfield, which indicates a version number of the service signaling channelof the corresponding ensemble.

The num_M/H_services field corresponds to an 8-bit unsigned integerfield, which represents the number of mobile (i.e., M/H) servicescarried through the corresponding M/H ensemble.

For example, when the minor protocol version within the FIC chunk headeris changed, and when an extension field is added to the ensemble loopheader, the corresponding extension field is added immediately after thenum M/H services field. According to anther embodiment of the presentinvention, if the num_M/H_services field is included in the mobileservice loop, the corresponding extension field that is to be added inthe ensemble loop header is added immediately after theM/H_service_configuration_version field.

The M/H_service_id field of the mobile service loop corresponds to a16-bit unsigned integer number, which identifies the corresponding M/Hservice. The value (or number) of the M/H_service_id field shall beunique within the mobile (M/H) broadcast. When an M/H service hascomponents in multiple M/H ensembles, the set of IP streamscorresponding to the service in each ensemble shall be treated as aseparate service for signaling purposes, with the exception that theentries for the corresponding services in the FIC shall all have thesame M/H_service_id field value. Thus, the same M/H_service_id fieldvalue may appear in more than one num_ensembles loop. And, accordingly,the M/H_service_id field shall represent the overall combined service,thereby maintaining the uniqueness of the M/H_service_id field value.

The multi_ensemble_service field is a 2-bit enumerated field, whichindicates whether the corresponding mobile (M/H) service is transmittedthrough (or over) one ensemble, or whether the corresponding mobile(M/H) service is transmitted through (or over) multiple ensembles. Also,the value of the multi_ensemble_service field indicates whether or notthe mobile service is valid (or rendered meaningfully) only for themobile service portion being transmitted through (or over) thecorresponding ensemble.

The M/H_service_status field corresponds to a 2-bit enumerated field,which identifies the status of the corresponding M/H service. Forexample, the most significant bit of the M/H_service_status fieldindicates whether the corresponding M/H service is active (when set to‘1’) or inactive (when set to ‘0’). Furthermore, the least significantbit indicates whether the corresponding M/H service is hidden (when setto ‘1’) or not (when set to ‘0’).

The SP_indicator field corresponds to a 1-bit field, which, when set to‘1’, indicates whether or not service protection is applied to at leastone of the components required for providing a significant presentationof the corresponding M/H service.

For example, when the minor protocol version of the FIC chunk is change,and if an expansion field is added to the mobile service loop, theexpansion field is added after the SP_indicator field.

Also, the FIC chunk payload may include an FIC_chunk_stuffing( ) field.Stuffing of the FIC_chunk_stuffing( ) field may exist in an FIC-Chunk,to keep the boundary of the FIC-Chunk to be aligned with the boundary ofthe last FIC-Segment among FIC segments belonging to the FIC chunk. Thelength of the stuffing is determined by how much space is left afterparsing through the entire FIC-Chunk payload preceding the stuffing.

At this point, the transmitting system (not shown) according to thepresent invention divides the FIC chunk into multiple FIC segments,thereby outputting the divided FIC segments to the receiving system inFIC segment units. The size of each FIC segment unit is 37 bytes, andeach FIC segment consists of a 2-byte FIC segment header and a 35-byteFIC segment payload. More specifically, an FIC chunk, which isconfigured of an FIC chunk header and an FIC chunk payload, is segmentedby units of 35 bytes. Also, an FIC segment is configured by adding a2-byte FIC segment header in front of each segmented 35-byte unit.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the length of theFIC chunk payload is variable. Herein, the length of the FIC chunkvaries depending upon the number of ensembles being transmitted throughthe corresponding physical transmission channel and the number of mobileservices included in each ensemble.

Also, the FIC chunk payload may include stuffing data. In this case, thestuffing data are used for the boundary alignment of the FIC chunk andthe last FIC-Segment, among FIC segments belonging to the FIC chunk,according to the embodiment of the present invention. Accordingly, byminimizing the length of the stuffing data, unnecessary wasting of FICsegments can be reduced.

At this point, the number of stuffing data bytes being inserted in theFIC chunk can be calculated by using Equation 1 below.

The number of stuffing data bytes=35−j

j=(5+the number of signaling data bytes being inserted in the FIC chunkpayload) mod 35   Equation 1

For example, when the added total length of the 5-byte header within theFIC chunk and signaling data, which is to be inserted in the payloadwithin the FIC chunk, is equal to 205 bytes, the payload of the FICchunk may include 5 bytes of stuffing data because j is equal to 30 inEquation 1. Also, the length of the FIC chunk payload including thestuffing data is equal to 210 bytes. Thereafter, the FIC chunk isdivided into 6 FIC segments, which are then transmitted. At this point,a segment number is sequentially assigned to each of the 6 FIC segmentsdivided from the FIC chunk.

Furthermore, the present invention may transmit the FIC segments dividedfrom a single FIC chunk to a single sub-frame, or may transmit thedivided FIC segments to multiple sub-frames. If the FIC chunk is dividedand transmitted to multiple sub-frames, signaling data, which arerequired even when the amount of data that are to be transmitted throughthe FIC chunk is larger than the amount of FIC segments beingtransmitted through a single sub-frame (this case corresponds to whenmultiple services having very low bit rates are being executed), may allbe transmitted through the FIC chunk.

Herein, the FIC segment numbers represent FIC segment numbers withineach FIC chunk, and not the FIC segment number within each sub-frame.Thus, the subordinate relation between the FIC chunk and the sub-framecan be eliminated, thereby reducing excessive waste of FIC segments.

Furthermore, the present invention may add a null FIC segment. Despitethe repeated transmission of the FIC chunk, and when stuffing isrequired in the corresponding M/H frame, the null FIC segment is usedfor the purpose of processing the remaining FIC segments. For example,it is assumed that TNoG is equal to ‘3’ and that the FIC chunk isdivided into 2 FIC segments. Herein, when the FIC chunk is repeatedlytransmitted through 5 sub-frames within a single M/H frame, only 2 FICsegments are transmitted through one of the 5 sub-frames (e.g., thesub-frame chronologically placed in the last order). In this case, onenull FIC segment is assigned to the corresponding sub-frame, therebybeing transmitted. More specifically, the null FIC segment is used foraligning the boundary of the FIC chunk and the boundary of the M/Hframe. At this point, since the null FIC segment is not an FIC segmentdivided from the FIC chunk, an FIC segment number is not assigned to thenull FIC segment.

In the present invention, when a single FIC chunk is divided into aplurality of FIC segments, and when the divided FIC segments areincluded in each data group of at least one sub-frame within the M/Hframe, so as to be transmitted, the corresponding FIC segments areallocated in a reversed order starting from the last sub-frame withinthe corresponding M/H frame. According to an embodiment of the presentinvention, in case a null FIC segment exists, the null FIC segment ispositioned in the sub-frame within the M/H frame, so that thecorresponding null FIC segment can be transmitted as the last (or final)segment.

At this point, in order to enable the receiving system to discard thenull FIC segment without having to process the corresponding null FICsegment, identification information that can identify (or distinguish)the null FIC segment is required.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the presentinvention uses the FIC_segment_type field within the header of the nullFIC segment as the identification information for identifying the nullFIC segment. In this embodiment, the value of the FIC_segment_type fieldwithin the null FIC segment header is set to ‘11’, so as to identify thecorresponding null FIC segment. More specifically, when theFIC_segment_type field value within the null FIC segment header is setto ‘11’ and transmitted to the receiving system, the receiving systemmay discard the payload of the FIC segment having the FIC_segment_typefield value set to ‘11’ without having to process the corresponding FICsegment payload. Herein, the value ‘11’ is merely an exemplary valuegiven to facilitate and simplify the understanding of the presentinvention. As long as a pre-arrangement between the receiving system andthe transmitting system is established, any value that can identify thenull FIC segment may be given to the FIC_segment_type field. Therefore,the present invention will not be limited only to the example setpresented herein. Furthermore, the identification information that canidentify the null FIC segment may also be indicated by using anotherfield within the FIC segment header.

FIG. 14 illustrates an exemplary syntax structure of an FIC segmentheader according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Herein, the FIC segment header may include an FIC_segment_type field, anFIC_chunk_major_protocol_version field, a current_next_indicator field,an error_indicator field, an FIC_segment_num field, and anFIC_last_segment_num field. Each field will now be described as follows.

The FIC_segment_type field corresponds to a 2-bit field, which, when setto ‘00’ indicates that the corresponding FIC segment is carrying aportion of an FIC chunk. Alternatively, when the FIC_segment_type fieldis set to ‘11’, the FIC_segment_type field indicates that thecorresponding FIC segment is a null FIC segment, which transmitsstuffing data. Herein, the remaining values are reserved for future use.

The FIC_Chunk_major_protocol_version field corresponds to a 2-bit field,which indicates a major protocol version of the corresponding FIC chunk.At this point, the value of the FIC_Chunk_major_protocol_version fieldshould be the same as the value of the FIC_major_protocol_version fieldwithin the corresponding FIC chunk header. Since reference may be madeto the description of the FIC chunk header shown in FIG. 12, a detaileddescription of the major protocol version of the FIC chunk syntax willbe omitted for simplicity.

The current_next_indicator field corresponds to a 1-bit indicator,which, when set to ‘1’, shall indicate that the corresponding FICsegment is carrying a portion of the FIC chunk, which is applicable tothe current M/H frame. Alternatively, when the value of thecurrent_next_indicator field is set to ‘0’, the current_next_indicatorfield shall indicate that the corresponding FIC segment is carrying aportion of the FIC chunk, which will be applicable for the next M/Hframe.

The error_indicator field corresponds to a 1-bit field, which indicateswhether or not an error has occurred in the corresponding FIC segmentduring transmission. Herein, the error_indicator field is set to ‘1’,when an error has occurred. And, the error_indicator field is set to‘0’, when an error does not exist (or has not occurred). Morespecifically, during the process of configuring the FIC segment, when anon-recovered error exists, the error_indicator field is set to ‘1’.More specifically, the error_indicator field enables the receivingsystem to recognize the existence (or presence) of an error within thecorresponding FIC segment.

The FIC_segment_num field corresponds to a 4-bit unsigned integer numberfield, which indicates a number of the corresponding FIC segment. Forexample, if the corresponding FIC segment is the first FIC segment ofthe FIC chunk, the value of the FIC_segment_num field shall be set to‘0x0’. Also, if the corresponding FIC segment is the second FIC segmentof the FIC chunk, the value of the FIC_segment_num field shall be set to‘0x1’. More specifically, the FIC_segment_num field shall be incrementedby one with each additional FIC segment in the FIC chunk. Herein, if theFIC chunk is divided into 4 FIC segments, the FIC_segment_num fieldvalue of the last FIC segment within the FIC chunk will be indicated as‘0x3’.

The FIC last segment num field corresponds to a 4-bit unsigned integernumber field, which indicates the number of the last FIC segment (i.e.,the FIC segment having the highest FIC_segment_num field value) within acomplete FIC chunk.

In the conventional method, FIC segment numbers are sequentiallyassigned (or allocated) for each FIC segment within one sub-frame.Therefore, in this case, the last FIC segment number always matches withthe TNoG (i.e., the last FIC segment number is always equal to theTNoG). However, when using the FIC number assignment method according tothe present invention, the last FIC segment number may not always matchwith the TNoG. More specifically, the last FIC segment number may matchwith the TNoG, or the last FIC segment number may not match with theTNoG. The TNoG represents a total number of data groups that areallocated (or assigned) to a single sub-frame. For example, when theTNoG is equal to ‘6’, and when the FIC chunk is divided into 8 FICsegments, the TNoG is equal to ‘6’, and the last FIC segment number is‘8’.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, the null FICsegment may be identified by using the value of the FIC_segment_numfield within the FIC segment header. More specifically, since an FICsegment number is not assigned to the null FIC segment, the transmittingsystem allocates null data to the FIC_segment_num field value of thenull FIC segment, and the receiving system may allow the FIC segmenthaving null data assigned to the FIC_segment_num field value to berecognized as the null FIC segment. Herein, instead of the null data,data pre-arranged by the receiving system and the transmitting systemmay be assigned to the FIC_segment_num field value, instead of the nulldata.

As described above, the FIC chunk is divided into a plurality of FICsegments, thereby being transmitted through a single sub-frame or beingtransmitted through multiple sub-frames. Also, FIC segments divided froma single FIC chunk may be transmitted through a single sub-frame, or FICsegments divided from multiple single FIC chunks may be transmittedthrough a single sub-frame. At this point, the number assigned to eachFIC segment corresponds to a number within the corresponding FIC chunk(i.e., the FIC_seg_number value), and not the number within thecorresponding sub-frame. Also, the null FIC segment may be transmittedfor aligning the boundary of the M/H frame and the boundary of the FICchunk. At this point, an FIC segment number is not assigned to the nullFIC segment.

As described above, one FIC chunk may be transmitted through multiplesub-frames, or multiple FIC chunks may be transmitted through a singlesub-frame. However, according to the embodiment of the presentinvention, the FIC segments are interleaved and transmitted in sub-frameunits.

Meanwhile, FIG. 15 illustrates an exemplary structure of a bit streamsyntax of an SMT section which is included in the RS frame and thentransmitted. Herein, the SMT section is configured in an MPEG-2 privatesection format for simplicity. However, the SMT section data may beconfigured in any possible format.

The SMT may provide access information of mobile services within anensemble including the SMT. Also, the SMT may provide informationrequired for the rendering of mobile services. Furthermore, the SMT mayinclude at least one or more descriptors. Herein, other additional (orsupplementary) information may be described by the descriptor.

At this point, the service signaling channel that transmits the SMT mayfurther include another signaling table (e.g., GAT) in addition to theSMT.

Herein, according to the embodiment of the present invention, IPdatagrams of the service signaling channel have the same well-knowndestination IP address and the same well-known destination UDP portnumber. Therefore, the SMT included in the service signaling data isdistinguished (or identified) by a table identifier. More specifically,the table identifier may correspond to a table_id existing in thecorresponding table or in a header of the corresponding table section.And, when required, the table identifier may further refer to atable_id_extension field, so as to perform the identification process.Exemplary fields that can be transmitted through the SMT section willnow be described in detail.

A table_id field is an 8-bit table identifier, which may be set up as anidentifier for identifying the SMT.

A section_syntax_indicator field corresponds to an indicator definingthe section format of the SMT. For example, the section_syntax_indicatorfield shall be set to ‘0’ to always indicate that this table is derivedfrom the “short” form of the MPEG-2 private section table format maycorrespond to MPEG long-form syntax.

A private indicator field is a 1-bit field, which indicates whether ornot the SMT follows (or is in accordance with) a private section.

A section_length field is a 12-bit field, which specifies the sectionlength of the remaining SMT data bytes immediately following thesection_length field.

A table_id_extension field corresponds to a table-dependent 16-bitfield. Herein, the table_id_extension field corresponds to a logicalportion of the table_id field providing the scope for the remainingfields. The table_id_extension field includes a SMT_protocol_versionfield and an ensemble_id field.

The SMT_protocol_version field corresponds to an 8-bit unsigned integerfield. Herein, the SMT_protocol_version field indicates a protocolversion for allowing the corresponding SMT to carry, in a futureprocess, parameters that may be structure differently from those definedin the current protocol. Presently, the value of theSMT_protocol_version field shall be equal to zero (0). Non-zero valuesof the SMT_protocol_version field may be used by a future version ofthis standard to indicate structurally different tables.

The ensemble_id field corresponds to an 8-bit field. Herein, the IDvalues associated with the corresponding ensemble that can be assignedto the ensemble_id field may range from ‘0x00’ and ‘0x3F’. It ispreferable that the value of the ensemble_id field is derived from theTPC data of the parade_id field. When the corresponding ensemble istransmitted through a primary RS frame, the most significant bit (MSB)is set to ‘0’, and the remaining 7 bits are used as the parade_id fieldvalue of the corresponding parade. Meanwhile, when the correspondingensemble is transmitted through a primary RS frame, the most significantbit (MSB) is set to ‘1’, and the remaining 7 bits are used as theparade_id field value of the corresponding parade.

A version_number field corresponds to a 5-bit field, which specifies theversion number of the SMT.

A current_next_indicator field corresponds to a 1-bit field indicatingwhether or not the SMT section is currently applicable.

A section_number field is an 8-bit field specifying the number of thecurrent SMT section.

A last_section_number field corresponds to an 8-bit field that specifiesthe number of the last section configuring the corresponding SMT.

And, a num_MH_services field corresponds to an 8-bit field, whichspecifies the number of mobile services in the corresponding SMTsection.

Hereinafter, a number of ‘for’ loop (also referred to as mobile (M/H)service loop) statements equivalent to the number of mobile servicescorresponding to the num_MH_services field is performed so as to providesignaling information on multiple mobile services. More specifically,signaling information of the corresponding mobile service is indicatedfor each mobile service that is included in the SMT section. Herein, thefollowing field information corresponding to each mobile service may beprovided as described below.

An MH_service_id field corresponds to a 16-bit unsigned integer number,which can uniquely identify the corresponding mobile service within thescope of the corresponding SMT section.

A multi_ensemble_service field corresponds to a 2-bit field, whichindicates whether the corresponding mobile service is transmittedthrough one or more ensembles. Since the multi_ensemble_service fieldhas the same meaning as the multi_ensemble_service field included in theFIC chunk, detailed description of the same will be omitted forsimplicity.

An MH_service_status field corresponds to a 2-bit field, which canidentify the status of the corresponding mobile service. Herein, the MSBindicates whether the corresponding mobile service is active (‘1’) orwhether the corresponding mobile service is inactive (‘0’). Also, theLSB indicates whether the corresponding mobile service is hidden (‘1’)or not hidden (‘0’).

An SP_indicator field corresponds to a 1-bit field, which specifiesservice protection status of the corresponding mobile service. If the SPindicator field is set to ‘1’, then service protection is applied to atleast one of the components needed to provide a meaningful presentationof the corresponding service.

A short_MH_service_name_length field corresponds to a 3-bit field, whichindicates the length of a short service name described in ashort_service_name field in byte-length units.

The short_MH_service name field indicates the short name of thecorresponding mobile service.

An MH_service_category field is a 6-bit field, which identifies the typecategory of the corresponding mobile service.

A num_components field corresponds to a 5-bit field, which specifies thenumber of IP stream components in the corresponding mobile service.

An IP_version_flag field corresponds to a 1-bit indicator, which whenset to ‘0’ indicates that a source_IP_address field, an MH servicedestination_IP_address field, and a component_destination_IP_addressfield correspond to IPv4 addresses. The value of ‘1’ for theIP_version_flag field is reserved for any possible future indicationthat the source_IP_address field, the MH_service_destination_IP_addressfield, and the component_destination_IP_address field correspond to IPv6addresses. However, the usage of IPv6 addressing is currently undefined.

A source_IP_address_flag corresponds to a 1-bit Boolean flag, whichindicates, when set, that a source IP address value for thecorresponding service exists (or is present) so as to indicate a sourcespecific multicast.

An MH_service_destination_IP_address_flag corresponds to a 1-bit, whichindicates, when set, that the corresponding IP stream component istransmitted through an IP datagram having a destination IP addressdifferent from that of the MH_service_destination_IP_address field.Therefore, when the MH_service_destination_IP_address_flag is set, thereceiving system may use the component destination_IP_address as thedestination_IP_address in order to access the corresponding IP streamcomponent. Furthermore, the receiving system ignores (or disregards) theMH_service_destination_IP_address field within the mobile service loop.

The source_IP_address field corresponds to a 32-bit field or a 128-bitfield. When the source_IP_address_flag is set to ‘1’, thesource_IP_address field is required to be interpreted (or analyzed).However, when the source_IP_address_flag is set to ‘0’, thesource_IP_address field is not required to be interpreted (or analyzed).When the source_IP_address_flag is set to ‘1’, and when theIP_version_flag field is set to ‘0’, the corresponding field indicatesthat the source_IP_address field indicates a 32-bit IPv4 addressspecifying the corresponding mobile service source. Alternatively, ifthe IP_version_flag field is set to ‘1’, the source_IP_address fieldindicates a 32-bit IPv6 address specifying the corresponding mobileservice source.

The MH_service_destination_IP_address field corresponds to a 32-bitfield or a 128-bit field. When theMH_service_destination_IP_address_flag field is set to ‘1’, theMH_service_destination_IP_address_flag is required to be interpreted (oranalyzed). However, when the MH_service_destination_IP_address_flag isset to ‘0’, the MH_service_destination_IP_address_flag is not requiredto be interpreted (or analyzed). Herein, if theMH_service_destination_IP_address_flag is set to ‘1’, and if theIP_version_flag field is set to ‘0’, theMH_service_destination_IP_address field indicates a 32-bit destinationIPv4 address for the corresponding mobile service.

Alternatively, if the MH_service_destination_IP_address_flag is set to‘1’, and if the IP_version_flag field is set to ‘1’, theMH_service_destination_IP_address field indicates a 64-bit destinationIPv6 address for the corresponding mobile service. In case thecorresponding MH_service_destination_IP_address field cannot beinterpreted, the component_destination_IP_address field within acomponent loop shall be interpreted. And, in this case, the receivingsystem shall use the component_destination_IP_address in order to accessthe IP stream component.

Meanwhile, the SMT according to the embodiment of the present inventionprovides information on multiple components using the ‘for’ loopstatement. Hereinafter, a number of ‘for’ loop (also referred to ascomponent loop) statements equivalent to the number of componentscorresponding to the num_component field value is performed so as toprovide access information on multiple components. More specifically,access information of each component included in the correspondingmobile service is provided. In this case, the following fieldinformation on each component may be provided as described below.

An essential_component_indicator field is a 1-bit field, which indicatesthat the corresponding component is an essential component for themobile service, when the essential_component_indicator field value isset to ‘1’. Otherwise, the essential_component_indicator field indicatesthat the corresponding component is an optional component. For example,in case of a basic layer audio stream and video stream, the essentialcomponent indicator field value is set to ‘1’. And, in case of theenhanced layer video stream, the essential component indicator fieldvalue is set to ‘0’.

A component_destination_IP_address_flag field corresponds to a 1-bitBoolean flag. When the component_destination_IP_address_flag field isset to ‘1’, this indicates that a component_destination_IP_addressexists for the corresponding component. A port_num_count fieldcorresponds to a 6-bit field, which indicates a UDP port numberassociated with the corresponding UDP/IP stream component. Herein, thedestination UDP Port number value is increased by 1 starting from adestination_UDP_port_num field value. The destination_UDP_port num fieldcorresponds to a 16-bit field, which indicates a destination UDP portnumber for the corresponding IP stream component.

A component_destination_IP_address field corresponds to a 32-bit fieldor a 128-bit field. When the IP_version_flag field is set to ‘0’, thecomponent_destination_IP_address field indicates a 32-bit destinationIPv4 address for the corresponding IP stream component. Furthermore,when the IP_version_flag field is set to ‘1’, thecomponent_destination_IP_address field indicates a 128-bit destinationIPv6 address for the corresponding IP stream component. When this fieldis present, the destination address of the IP datagrams carrying thecorresponding component of the M/H service shall match the address inthe component_destination_IP_address field. Alternatively, when thisfield is not present, the destination address of the IP datagramscarrying the corresponding component shall match the address in theM/H_service_destination_IP_address field. The conditional use of the 128bit-long address version of this field is to facilitate possible futureusage of the IPv6, although the usage of the IPv6 is currentlyundefined.

A num_component_level_descriptors field corresponds to a 4-bit field,indicating a number of descriptors providing additional information onthe component level. A number of component_level_descriptor( )corresponding to the value of the num_component_level_descriptors fieldis included in the component loop, so as to provide additional (orsupplemental) information on the corresponding component. Anum_MH_service_level_descriptors field corresponds to a 4-bit fieldindicating a number of descriptors providing additional information ofthe corresponding mobile service level.

A number of service_level_descriptor( ) corresponding to the value ofthe num_MH_service_level_descriptors field is included in the mobileservice loop, so as to provide additional (or supplemental) informationon the mobile service. A num_ensemble_level_descriptors fieldcorresponds to a 4-bit field, which indicates a number of descriptorsproviding additional information on ensemble levels. Furthermore, anumber of ensemble_level_descriptor( )corresponding to the value of thenum_ensemble_level_descriptors field is included in the ensemble loop,so as to provide additional (or supplemental) information on theensemble.

FIG. 16 illustrates a bit stream syntax structure of a GAT sectionaccording to an embodiment of the present invention. Herein, the GATsection has been written in an MPEG-2 private section format merely tofacilitate the understanding of the present invention.

The GAT section according to the present invention is included in theservice signaling channel, thereby being received. At this point, sincethe IP datagrams of the service signaling channel have the samewell-known IP address and the same well-known UDP port number, theidentification of the GAT included in the service signaling data isperformed by a table identifier. More specifically, the table identifiermay correspond to a table_id field existing in the corresponding tableor in the header of the corresponding table section. And, when required,identification may be performed by making further reference to atable_id_extension field.

The GAT section includes service guide provider information and alsoincludes service guide bootstrapping information for each provider.

Referring to FIG. 16, a table_id field is an 8-bit field acting as thetable identifier. The table_id field may be set as the identifier foridentifying the GAT.

A section_syntax_indicator field is a 1-bit field, which corresponds toan indicator defining a GAT section format.

A private_indicator field is also a 1-bit field indicating to whichprivate section the GAT belongs.

A section_length field is a 13-bit field, which indicates the sectionlength of the GAT.

Also, the GAT of FIG. 16 assigns a 16-bit GAT_protocol_version field tothe position of a table_id_extension field. Therefore, when the GAT isreceived through the service signaling channel, the GAT_protocol_versionfield may be used as one of the table identifiers that can identify theGAT. More specifically, the GAT_protocol_version field indicates theprotocol version which allows, in the future, the corresponding GAT tocarry (or deliver or transmit) parameters that may be structureddifferently than those defined in the current protocol. Presently, thevalue for the GAT_protocol_version field shall be equal to zero (0).And, non-zero values of the GAT_protocol_version field may be used by afuture version of this standard to indicate structurally differenttables.

A version_number field is a 5-bit field, which indicates the versionnumber of the GAT.

A current_next_indicator field is a 1-bit field, which indicates whetherthe GAT section is currently (or presently) applicable or not.

A section_number field corresponds to an 8-bit field, which indicatesthe section number of the current GAT section.

A last_section_number field corresponds to an 8-bit field, whichindicates the last section number of the GAT.

A num_SG_providers field indicates a number of SG providers described inthe current GAT section.

An SG_provider_id field indicates a unique indicator that can identifyeach SG provider.

Hereinafter, a ‘for’ loop (also referred to as an SG provider loop) isrepeated as many times as the value of the num_SG_providers field, so asto provide SG bootstrapping information for each SG provider. Forexample the following field information may be provided for each SGprovider.

An SG_provider_name length field is an 8-bit field, which indicates thetotal length of an SG_provider_name_text( ) field that follows.

The SG_provider_name_text( ) field corresponds to a variable-lengthfield, which indicates the name of the corresponding SG provider.Herein, the SG_provider_name_text( ) field is configured in a multiplestring structure.

An SG_delivery_network_type field corresponds to an 8-bit fieldindicating the type of delivery network through which the SG is beingtransmitted. FIG. 17 illustrates the significance of theSG_delivery_network_type field value according to the present invention.

An SG_bootstrapping_data_length field is an 8-bit field, which indicatesthe total length of an SG_bootstrap_data( ) field that follows.

The SG_bootstrap_data( ) field corresponds to a variable-length field,which provides SG bootstrapping information based upon the value of theSG_delivery_network_type field, as shown in FIG. 18 to FIG. 21.

Furthermore, each SG provider may provide additional information beingapplied for each SG provider by using the descriptor.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, theSG_level_descriptors( ) field included in the SG provider loop includesthe SG_delivery_network_type_field, the SG_bootstrapping_data_lengthfield, and the SG_bootstrap_data( ) field. Also, theSG_level_descriptors( ) may also provide SG bootstrapping informationbased upon the value of the SG delivery network type field, as shown inFIG. 18 to FIG. 21.

Furthermore, a num_additional_descriptors field corresponds to an 8-bitfield, which indicates the number of descriptors that follow. Aadditional descriptor( ) field, which is repeated as many times as thevalue of the num_additional_descriptors field, describes additionalinformation that may be applied to all SG providers included in the GATsection.

For example, when the value of the SG_delivery_network_type field isequal to ‘0x00’, the SG is delivered through the same mobile (i.e., M/H)broadcast through which the GAT is delivered. More specifically, the SGis included and received as a single mobile service in the RS frame,wherein the RS frame belongs to the ensemble to which the GAT isdelivered.

In another example, when the value of the SG_delivery_network_type fieldis equal to ‘0x01’, the SG is delivered through a mobile (i.e., M/H)broadcast other than that through which the GAT is delivered. Morespecifically, the SG is included and received as a single mobile servicein an RS frame, wherein the RS frame belongs to an ensemble other thanthat to which the GAT is delivered. FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment ofthis example, wherein a service provider possessing a separate physicalchannel may gather and combine information for the service guide, whichis provided from each broadcast station. Thereafter, the serviceprovider may transmit the combined SG through the possessed physicalchannel as a single mobile service.

In yet another example, when the value of the SG_delivery_network_typefield is equal to ‘0x02’, the SG is delivered through an associatedIP-based broadcast channel other, instead of the mobile broadcast. FIG.2 illustrates an embodiment of this example. More specifically, in ahybrid system wherein a terrestrial mobile system is combined with adigital video broadcasting satellite services to handhelds (DVB-SH)system, which is used for European portable (or mobile) digitalsatellite TV broadcasting, DVB-SH operators (e.g., DVB-SH serviceproviders) may gather and combine the information for service guides(e.g., schedule information on the corresponding mobile service)provided from a mobile broadcast station, so as to transmit the combinedinformation to each receiving system through a DVB-SH network (i.e.,satellite).

In yet another example, when the value of the SG_delivery_network_typefield is equal to ‘0x03’, the SG is delivered through an interaction (ora two-way or bi-directional) channel. FIG. 3 illustrates an embodimentof this example. More specifically, in a hybrid system configured by acombination of a terrestrial mobile system and an interaction channelsystem (e.g., a cellular system), an interaction (or two-way orbi-directional) channel SG provider (e.g., an operator or server managerequipped with an interaction (or two-way) channel network, such as acellular network operator) may gather and combine the information forservice guides (e.g., schedule information on the corresponding mobileservice) provided from a mobile broadcast station, so as to transmit thecombined information to each receiving system through an interaction (ortwo-way or bi-directional) channel.

FIG. 18 illustrates a bit stream syntax structure of theSG_bootstrap_data( ) field, when the SG_delivery_network_type fieldvalue is equal to ‘0x00’ (i.e., when the SG is delivered through thecurrent mobile broadcast). In other words, in this example, the SGdelivering announcement information associated with the mobile servicedata is included and transmitted in the mobile broadcast signaldelivering the mobile service data.

The SG bootstrapping information SG_bootstrap_data( ) of FIG. 18includes a 16-bit MH_Service_id field and a 16-bitannouncement_channel_TSI field.

When the SG_delivery_network_type field value is equal to ‘0x00’, the SGis delivered as a single mobile service. Therefore, the MH_service_idfield marks an identifier that can identify the mobile service includingthe SG data. At this point, access information of the mobile service forthe SG data is signaled to the SMT that, which is included in the mobilebroadcast signal delivering the SG, as shown in FIG. 15. Morespecifically, the MH_service_id field value of FIG. 18 is matched withone of the multiple MH_service_id field values, which are included inthe mobile service loop of the SMT.

The announcement_channel_TSI field indicates a transmission sessionidentifier (TSI) of a FLUTE session, which corresponds to anannouncement channel of a mobile service including the SG data. In otherwords, the announcement_channel_TSI field value corresponds to anidentifier that can uniquely identify the FLUTE session, whichcorresponds to the announcement channel. More specifically, by matchingthe MH_service_id field value of the SMT acquired from the currentmobile broadcast with the MH_service_id field value of FIG. 18, IPaccess information (e.g., a destination_IP_address, a destination UDPport number) of the mobile service including the SG data may be acquiredfrom the SMT. Also, by using the IP access information, an IP datagrammay be acquired from the corresponding mobile broadcast signal (i.e., anRS frame belonging to an ensemble including the SMT and the GAT).Furthermore, by using the announcement_channel_TSI field value, anALC/LCT header may be removed from the acquired IP datagram, therebyaccessing the corresponding FLUTE session and receiving the SG data.

FIG. 19 illustrates a bit stream syntax structure of theSG_bootstrap_data( ) field included in the GAT, when theSG_delivery_network_type field value is equal to ‘0x01’ (i.e., when theSG is delivered through a mobile broadcast signal other than that of theGAT). More specifically, when an SG associated with mobile services,which are transmitted through a mobile broadcast signal including theGAT, is transmitted through a different mobile broadcast signal, theSG_bootstrap_data( ) field of the GAT provides the bootstrappinginformation of the SG.

The SG bootstrapping information SG_bootstrap_data( ) of FIG. 19includes a 16-bit transport_stream_id field, a 16-bit MH_Service_idfield, and a 16-bit announcement_channel_TSI field. When theSG_delivery_network_type field value is equal to ‘0x01’, thetransport_stream_id field indicates a label that can identify the mobilebroadcast signal transmitting the SG.

More specifically, the transport_stream_id field indicates a transportstream ID of the mobile broadcast signal transmitting the SG. Thetransport_stream_id field value of FIG. 19 is equal to the value of thetransport_stream_id field within the header of a program map table (PAT)and within the FIC chunk header of FIG. 12.

Also, when the SG_delivery_network_type field value is equal to ‘0x01’,the SG is delivered as a single mobile service. Therefore, theMH_service_id field marks an identifier that can identify the mobileservice including the SG data. At this point, IP access information ofthe mobile service for the SG data is signaled to the SMT that, which isincluded in the mobile broadcast signal delivering the SG, and not themobile broadcast signal delivering the GAT, as shown in FIG. 15. Morespecifically, the MH_service_id field value of FIG. 19 is matched withone of the multiple MH_service_id field values, which are included inthe mobile service loop of the SMT.

The announcement_channel_TSI field indicates a transmission sessionidentifier (TSI) of a FLUTE session, which corresponds to anannouncement channel of a mobile service including the SG data.

More specifically, when the SG_delivery_network_type field value isequal to ‘0x01’, the mobile broadcast signal corresponding to thetransport_stream_id field of FIG. 19 is received once again. Then, bymatching the MH_service_id field value of the SMT acquired from thereceived mobile broadcast signal with the MH_service_id field value ofFIG. 19, IP access information (e.g., a destination_IP_address, adestination UDP port number) of the mobile service including the SG datamay be acquired from the SMT. Also, by using the IP access information,an IP datagram may be acquired from the corresponding mobile broadcastsignal (i.e., an RS frame belonging to an ensemble including the SMT).Furthermore, after removing an ALC/LCT header from the acquired IPdatagram, the corresponding FLUTE session may be accessed and the SGdata may be received by using the announcement_channel_TSI field value.

FIG. 20 illustrates a bit stream syntax structure of theSG_bootstrap_data( ) field included in the GAT, when theSG_delivery_network_type field value is equal to ‘0x02’ (i.e., when theSG is delivered through a different IP-based broadcast network). Morespecifically, when an SG associated with mobile services, which aretransmitted through a mobile broadcast signal including the GAT, istransmitted through a different IP-based broadcast network, theSG_bootstrap_data( ) field of the GAT provides the bootstrappinginformation of the SG.

The SG bootstrapping information SG_bootstrap_data( ) of FIG. 20includes a 1-bit IP_version_flag field, a 1-bit source_IP_address_flagfield, a 32-bit (or 128 bit) SG_bootstrap_destination_IP_address field,a 16-bit SG_bootstrap_destination_UDP_port_num field, and a 16-bitannouncement_channel_TSI field. Furthermore, depending upon thesource_IP_address_flag field value, the SG_bootstrap_data( ) may furtherinclude a 32-bit (or 128 bit) SG_bootstrap_source_IP_address field.

Referring to FIG. 20, when the source_IP_address_flag field value is setto ‘1’, the source_IP_address_flag field indicates that a source IPaddress value for the corresponding SG announcement channel exists inorder to indicate a source-specific multicast.

When the value of the IP_version_flag field is set to ‘1’, thisindicates that the source_IP_address field and theSG_bootstrap_destination_IP_address field are IPv6 addresses.Alternatively, when the value of the IP_version_flag field is set to‘0’, this indicates that the source_IP_address field and theSG_bootstrap_destination_IP_address field are IPv4 addresses.

The source_IP_address field corresponds to a 32-bit or 128-bit field.Herein, the source_IP_address field will be significant (or requiresanalysis), when the value of the source_IP_address_flag field is set to‘1’. However, when the value of the source_IP_address_flag field is setto ‘0’, the source_IP_address field will become insignificant (or willnot require analysis). Herein, when the value of thesource_IP_address_flag field is set to ‘1’, the source_IP_address fieldmarks the source_IP_address of all IP datagrams transmitting the SGannouncement channel with 32 bits or 128 bits. When thesource_IP_address_flag field value is set to ‘1’, and when theIP_version_flag field value is set to ‘0’, the source_IP_address fieldis indicated as a 32-bit IPv4 address. Alternatively, when theIP_version_flag field value is set to ‘1’, the source_IP_address fieldindicates a 128-bit IPv6 address, which shows the source of thecorresponding virtual channel.

The SG_bootstrap_destination_IP_address field indicates thedestination_IP_address of the SG announcement channel. Herein, when theIP_version_flag field value is set to ‘0’, theSG_bootstrap_destination_IP_address field is indicated as a 32-bit IPv4address. Alternatively, when the IP_version_flag field value is set to‘1’, the SG_bootstrap_destination_IP_address field indicates a 128-bitIPv6 address, which shows the source of the corresponding virtualchannel.

The SG_bootstrap_destination_UDP_port_number field indicates thedestination UDP port number of the SG announcement channel.

The announcement_channel_TSI field indicates a transmission sessionidentifier (TSI) of a FLUTE session, which corresponds to anannouncement channel of the SG.

More specifically, an IP datagram is acquired from a broadcast signal,which is received through a different broadcast network (i.e., anotherIP-based broadcast network) transmitting the SG, by using theSG_bootstrap_destination_IP_address field and theSG_bootstrap_destination_UDP_port_num field of FIG. 20. Then, afterremoving the ALC/LCT header from the acquired IP datagram, connectionmay be made to the corresponding FLUTE session by using theannouncement_channel_TSI field value, so as to receive the SG data.

FIG. 21 illustrates a bit stream syntax structure of theSG_bootstrap_data( ) field included in the GAT, when theSG_delivery_network_type field value is equal to ‘0x03’ (i.e., when theSG is delivered through an interaction (or two-way) channel). Morespecifically, when an SG associated with M/H services, which aretransmitted through an M/H broadcast signal including the GAT, istransmitted through an interaction (or two-way) channel, theSG_bootstrap_data( ) field of the GAT provides the bootstrappinginformation of the SG.

The SG bootstrapping information SG_bootstrap_data( ) of FIG. 21includes an 8-bit SG_entrypoint_URL_text_length field and avariable-length SG_entrypoint_URL_text field. TheSG_entrypoint_URL_text_length field indicates, in byte units, the totallength of the SG_entrypoint_URL_text field that follows. TheSG_entrypoint_URL_text field indicates a uniform resource locator (URL),which indicates the location of the SG entry point. More specifically,the interaction channel transmitting the SG is accessed, based upon thevalue of the SG_entrypoint_URL_text field, so as to receive the SG data.

FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 illustrate a flow chart showing a method ofperforming bootstrapping for a service guide according to an embodimentof the present invention.

First of all, a mobile (i.e., M/H) broadcast signal including auser-selected mobile (i.e., M/H) service is received and demodulated(S101). Then, FIC segments are acquired from the demodulated mobilebroadcast signal, and an FIC chunk is recovered based upon the acquiredFIC segments. Mapping information between an ensemble and a mobileservice is configured by using the information included in the recoveredFIC chunk (S102). The mapping information between the ensemble and themobile service may include an ensemble identifier, a mobile serviceidentifier included in the ensemble, which is identified by the ensembleidentifier, and service type information and so on.

Additionally, an RS frame including the user-selected mobile service isconfigured from the demodulated mobile broadcast signal, andCRC-decoding and RS-decoding are performed on the RS frame (S103).Thereafter, a service signaling channel is acquired from the CRC-decodedand RS-decoded RS frame (i.e., RS frame payload) (S104). Subsequently, aGAT section included in the service signaling channel is extracted(S105). More specifically, the GAT section is extracted from an IPdatagram of a service signaling channel having the same well-known IPaddress and the same well-known UDP port number (e.g., an IP multicaststream) by using a table identifier.

Then, a number of SG providers (num_SG_providers) described in the GATsection is acquired from the GAT section (S106). The process stepsfollowing step 106 are repeated as many times as the acquired number ofSG providers, so that SG bootstrapping information for each SG provideris gathered and the SG provided by each SG provider is accessed.

More specifically, name information of the corresponding SG provider(SG_provider_name_length, SG_provider_name_text), information on anSG_delivery network type (SG_delivery_network_type) through which the SGis transmitted, and information on a bootstrapping data length of the SG(SG_bootstrapping_data_length) are acquired for each SG provider (S107).

Subsequently, SG bootstrapping information is acquired in step 107depending upon the SG_delivery network type information(SG_delivery_network_type), and the corresponding SG is accessed byusing the acquired SG bootstrapping information.

If it is verified in step 108 that the SG_delivery_network_type fieldvalue is equal to ‘0x00’, a mobile service identifier (MH_service_id)and a transmission session identifier of an announcement channel(announcement_channel_TSI) are acquired from the SG_bootstrap_data( )shown in FIG. 18 (S109).

Thereafter, an SMT included in the service signaling channel acquired instep 104 is extracted (S110). Then, an IP access information associatedwith the M/H service identifier acquired in step 109 is acquired fromthe SMT extracted in step 110 (S111). An IP multicast stream is acquiredfrom the RS frame, which belongs to the ensemble including the SMT,(i.e., from the RS frame CRC-decoded and RS-decoded in step 103) basedupon the acquired IP access information (S112). Then, after removing theALC/LCT header from the acquired IP multicast stream, a FLUTE sessionassociated with the announcement_channel_TSI field is received (orjoined) (S113), SG data is accessed (S114).

More specifically, by matching the MH_service_id field value of the SMTacquired from the current mobile broadcast signal with the MH_service_idfield value of FIG. 18, IP access information (e.g., adestination_IP_address and a destination UDP port number) of the mobileservice including the SG data is acquired from the SMT. Thereafter, anIP datagram (i.e., IP multicast stream) is acquired from a correspondingmobile broadcast signal (i.e., an RS frame that belongs to an ensembleincluding the SMT) by using the IP access information. Then, afterremoving the ALC/LCT header from the acquired IP datagram, access madeto the corresponding FLUTE session by using the announcement_channel_TSIfield value, so as to receive the SG data.

Meanwhile, when it is verified in step 108 that theSG_delivery_network_type field value is equal to ‘0x01’, a transportstream identifier (transport_stream_id), a mobile service identifier(MH_service_id), and a transmission session identifier of anannouncement channel (announcement_channel_TSI) are acquired from theSG_bootstrap_data( ) shown in FIG. 19 (S115). Then, a mobile broadcastsignal associated with the transport stream identifier(transport_stream_id) is received and demodulated (S116). For example,the mobile broadcast signal received in step 116 and the mobilebroadcast signal received in step 101 each have different transportstream identifiers.

Subsequently, FIC segments are acquired from the mobile broadcast signaldemodulated in step 116 and an FIC chunk is recovered based upon theacquired FIC segments. Then, an ensemble associated with the mobilebroadcast signal acquired in step 115 is identified from the recoveredFIC chunk (S117). Thereafter, an RS frame belonging to the ensemble,which is identified from the mobile broadcast signal demodulated in step116, is configured, thereby performing CRC-decoding and RS-decoding onthe RS frame. Then, a service signaling channel is acquired from theCRC-decoded and RS-decoded RS frame (i.e., from the RS frame payload),so as to extract an SMT included in the service signaling channel(S118). More specifically, an SMT section is extracted from an IPdatagram of a service signaling channel having the same well-known IPaddress and the same well-known UDP port number (e.g., an IP multicaststream) by using a table identifier.

Then, an IP access information associated with the M/H serviceidentifier acquired in step 115 is acquired from the SMT extracted instep 118 (S119). An IP multicast stream is acquired from the RS frame,which includes the SMT extracted in step 118, based upon the acquired IPaccess information (S120). Then, after removing the ALC/LCT header fromthe acquired IP multicast stream, a FLUTE session associated with theannouncement_channel_TSI field is received (or joined) (S121), therebyaccessing the SG data (S122).

More specifically, after receiving a mobile broadcast signalcorresponding to the transport_stream_id field of FIG. 19, by matchingthe MH_service_id field value of the SMT acquired from the currentmobile broadcast signal with the MH_service_id field value of FIG. 19,IP access information (e.g., a destination_IP_address and a destinationUDP port number) of the mobile service including the SG data is acquiredfrom the SMT. Thereafter, an IP datagram (i.e., IP multicast stream) isacquired from a corresponding mobile broadcast signal (i.e., an RS framethat belongs to the corresponding ensemble) by using the IP accessinformation. Then, after removing the ALC/LCT header from the acquiredIP datagram, connection made to the corresponding FLUTE session by usingthe announcement_channel_TSI field value, so as to receive the SG data.

Meanwhile, if it is verified in step 108 that theSG_delivery_network_type field value is equal to ‘0x02’, an IP accessinformation for SG bootstrapping and a transmission session identifierof an announcement channel (announcement_channel_TSI) are acquired fromthe SG_bootstrap_data( ) shown in FIG. 20 (S123). Herein, the IP accessinformation for SG bootstrapping includes an SG bootstrapdestination_IP_address SG_bootstrap_destination_IP_address field) and anSG bootstrap destination UDP port number(SG_bootstrap_destination_UDP_port_num_field). The IP access informationfor SG bootstrapping may further include an SG bootstrap source IPaddress (SG_bootstrap_source_IP_address field).

When SG bootstrapping information of the corresponding SG provider isacquired in step 123, another broadcast network transmitting the SG istuned, so as to gather (or collect) the appropriate parameters (S124).Thereafter, by using the parameters, an IP multicast stream is acquiredfrom the other broadcast network (S125). Then, after removing theALC/LCT header from the acquired IP multicast stream, a FLUTE sessionassociated with the announcement_channel_TSI field is received (orjoined) (S126), thereby accessing the SG data (S127).

More specifically, an IP datagram is acquired from a broadcast signal,which is received through a different broadcast network (i.e., anotherIP-based broadcast network) transmitting the SG, by using theSG_bootstrap_destination_IP_address field and theSG_bootstrap_destination_UDP_port_num field of FIG. 20. Then, afterremoving the ALC/LCT header from the acquired IP datagram, connectionmay be made to the corresponding FLUTE session by using theannouncement_channel_TSI field value, so as to receive the SG data.

Meanwhile, if it is verified in step 108 that theSG_delivery_network_type field value is equal to ‘0x03’, an accessinformation for SG bootstrapping is acquired from the SG_bootstrap_data() shown in FIG. 21 (S128). Herein, the access information includes an SGentry point URL (SG_entrypoint_URL field). Also, an interaction (ortwo-way or bi-directional) channel is accessed, based upon the accessinformation (S129), so as to receive the SG data (S130). When the SGdata are received by performing any one of step 114, step 122, step 127,and step 130, after subtracting ‘1’ from the num_SG_providers fieldvalue acquired in step 106 (S131), it is verified whether thenum_SG_providers field value is equal to ‘0’ (S132). If thenum_SG_providers field value is not equal to ‘0’, the process returns tostep 107, so as to extract bootstrapping information for accessing theSG, which is transmitted by the next SG provider, thereby performing theprocess of accessing the SG. Alternatively, if the num_SG_providersfield value not equal to ‘0’, this indicates that all SGs provided fromthe SG providers included in the GAP section have been received.Therefore, the SG bootstrapping process is terminated.

Receiving System

FIG. 24 illustrates an embodiment of a receiving system according to thepresent invention. In FIG. 24, a solid arrow denotes a data path and adotted arrow denotes a control signal path.

The receiving system according to the present invention may include anoperation controller 2100, a tuner 2111, a demodulator 2112, anequalizer 2113, a known sequence detector (or known data detector) 2114,a block decoder 2115, a primary Reed-Solomon (RS) frame decoder 2116, asecondary RS frame decoder 2117, a signaling decoder 2118, and abaseband controller 2119. The receiving system according to the presentinvention may further include an FIC handler 2121, a service manager2122, a service signaling handler 2123, and a first storage unit 2124.The receiving system according to the present invention may furtherinclude a primary RS frame buffer 2131, a secondary RS frame buffer2132, and a transport packet (TS) handler 2133. The receiving systemaccording to the present invention may further include an InternetProtocol (IP) datagram handler 2141, a descrambler 2142, an UserDatagram Protocol (UDP) datagram handler 2143, a Real-time TransportProtocol/Real-time Transport Control Protocol (RTP/RTCP) datagramhandler 2144, a Network Time Protocol (NTP) datagram handler 2145, aservice protection stream handler 2146, a second storage unit 2147, anAsynchronous Layered Coding/Layered Coding Transport (ALC/LCT) streamhandler 2148, an Extensible Mark-up Language (XML) parser 2150, and aField Device Tool (FDT) handler 2151. The receiving system according tothe present invention may further include an Audio/Video (A/V) decoder2161, a file decoder 2162, a third storage unit 2163, a middle ware(M/W) engine 2164, and a Service Guide (SG) handler 2165. The receivingsystem according to the present invention may further include anElectronic Program Guide (EPG) manager 2171, an application manager2172, and an User Interface (UI) manager 2173. Additionally, thereceiving system further includes another broadcast network interface2001 for receiving a service guide, which is transmitted through anotherbroadcast network, and an interaction (or two-way or bi-directional)network interface 2003 for receiving a service guide, which istransmitted through an interaction channel. According to the embodimentof the present invention, the interaction network interface 2003constructs an interface with an IP-based interaction network regardlessof a physical medium, such as wireless or optical medium.

Herein, for simplicity of the description of the present invention, theoperation controller 2100, the tuner 2111, the demodulator 2112, theequalizer 2113, the known sequence detector (or known data detector)2114, the block decoder 2115, the primary RS frame decoder 2116, thesecondary RS frame decoder 2117, the signaling decoder 2118, and thebaseband controller 2119 will be collectively referred to as a basebandprocessor 2110. The FIC handler 2121, the service manager 2122, theservice signaling handler 2123, and the first storage unit 2124 will becollectively referred to as a service multiplexer 2120. The primary RSframe buffer 2131, the secondary RS frame buffer 2132, and the TShandler 2133 will be collectively referred to as an IP adaptation module2130. The IP datagram handler 2141, the descrambler 2142, the UDPdatagram handler 2143, the RTP/RTCP datagram handler 2144, the NTPdatagram handler 2145, the service protection stream handler 2146, thesecond storage unit 2147, the ALC/LCT stream handler 2148, the XMLparser 2150, and the FDT handler 2151 will be collectively referred toas a common IP module 2140. The A/V decoder 2161, the file decoder 2162,the third storage unit 2163, the M/W engine 2164, and the SG handler2165 will be collectively referred to as an application module 2160.

In addition, although the terms used in FIG. 24 are selected fromgenerally known and used terms, some of the terms mentioned in thedescription of FIG. 24 have been selected by the applicant at his or herdiscretion, the detailed meanings of which are described in relevantparts of the description herein. Furthermore, it is required that thepresent invention is understood, not simply by the actual terms used butby the meaning of each term lying within.

Referring to FIG. 24, the baseband controller 2119 controls theoperation of each block included in the baseband processor 2110.

By tuning the receiving system to a specific physical channel frequency(or physical transmission channel frequency, PTC), the tuner 2111enables the receiving system to receive main service data, whichcorrespond to broadcast signals for fixed-type broadcast receivingsystems, and mobile service data, which correspond to broadcast signalsfor mobile broadcast receiving systems. At this point, the tunedfrequency of the specific physical channel is down-converted to anintermediate frequency (IF) signal, thereby being outputted to thedemodulator 2112 and the known sequence detector 2114.

At this point, the tuner 2111 may receive main service data and mobileservice data, or the tuner 2111 may receive a service guide associatedwith the mobile service data or service guide data associated withanother set of mobile service data.

More specifically, the service guide delivering announcement informationon the mobile service data included in the mobile broadcast signal,which is currently being received, may be received by being included inthe mobile broadcast signal or received through a mobile broadcastsignal of another physical channel. In this case, the service guide isreceived and processed by the tuner 2111 of the baseband processing unit2110 based upon the control of the service manager 2122 and/or theoperation controller 2100. Also, the service guide may be transmittedthrough a different broadcast network. And, the service guide beingtransmitted through the other broadcast network is received andprocessed by the other broadcast network interface 2001 based upon thecontrol of the service manager 2122 and/or the operation controller2100. Furthermore, the service guide may be transmitted through aninteraction channel. And, the service guide being transmitted throughthe interaction channel is received and processed by the interactionnetwork interface 2003 based upon the control of the service manager2122 and/or the operation controller 2100.

The passband digital IF signal being outputted from the tuner 2111 mayonly include main service data, or only include mobile service data, orinclude both main service data and mobile service data.

The demodulator 2112 performs self-gain control, carrier recovery, andtiming recovery processes on the passband digital IF signal inputtedfrom the tuner 2111, thereby modifying the IF signal to a basebandsignal. Then, the demodulator 2112 outputs the baseband signal to theequalizer 2113 and the known sequence detector 2114. The demodulator2112 uses the known data symbol sequence inputted from the knownsequence detector 2114 during the timing and/or carrier recovery,thereby enhancing the demodulating performance.

The equalizer 2113 compensates channel-associated distortion included inthe signal demodulated by the demodulator 2112. Then, the equalizer 2113outputs the distortion-compensated signal to the block decoder 2115. Byusing a known data symbol sequence inputted from the known sequencedetector 2114, the equalizer 2113 may enhance the equalizingperformance. Furthermore, the equalizer 2113 may receive feed-back onthe decoding result from the block decoder 2115, thereby enhancing theequalizing performance.

The known sequence detector 2114 detects known data place (or position)inserted by the transmitting system from the input/output data (i.e.,data prior to being demodulated or data being processed with partialdemodulation). Then, the known sequence detector 2114 outputs thedetected known data position information and known data sequencegenerated from the detected position information to the demodulator2112, the equalizer 2113, and the baseband controller 2119.Additionally, in order to allow the block decoder 2115 to identify themobile service data that have been processed with additional encoding bythe transmitting system and the main service data that have not beenprocessed with any additional encoding, the known sequence detector 2114outputs such corresponding information to the block decoder 2115.

If the data channel-equalized by the equalizer 2113 and inputted to theblock decoder 2115 correspond to data processed with both block-encodingof serial concatenated convolution code (SCCC) method andtrellis-encoding by the transmitting system (i.e., data within the RSframe, signaling data), the block decoder 2115 may performtrellis-decoding and block-decoding as inverse processes of thetransmitting system. On the other hand, if the data channel-equalized bythe equalizer 2113 and inputted to the block decoder 2115 correspond todata processed only with trellis-encoding and not block-encoding by thetransmitting system (i.e., main service data), the block decoder 2115may perform only trellis-decoding.

The signaling decoder 2118 decodes signaling data that have beenchannel-equalized and inputted from the equalizer 2113. It is assumedthat the signaling data (or signaling information) inputted to thesignaling decoder 2118 correspond to data processed with bothblock-encoding and trellis-encoding by the transmitting system. Examplesof such signaling data may include transmission parameter channel (TPC)data and fast information channel (FIC) data.

For example, among the data that are being inputted, the signalingdecoder 2118 performs regressive turbo decoding of a parallelconcatenated convolution code (PCCC) method on data corresponding to thesignaling information region. Subsequently, the signaling decoder 2118separates FIC data and TPC data from the regressive-turbo-decodedsignaling data. Additionally, the signaling decoder 2118 performsRS-decoding as inverse processes of the transmitting system on theseparated TPC data, thereby outputting the processed data to thebaseband controller 2119. Also, the signaling decoder 2118 performsdeinterleaving in sub-frame units on the separated FIC data, so as toperform RS-decoding as inverse processes of the transmitting system onthe deinterleaved FIC data, thereby outputting the processed data to theFIC handler 2121. The FIC data being deinterleaved and RS-decoded fromthe signaling decoder 2118 and outputted to the FIC handler 2121 aretransmitted in units of FIC segments.

The FIC handler 2121 receives FIC data from the signaling decoder 2118,so as to extract signaling information for service acquisition (i.e.,mapping information between an ensemble and a mobile service). In orderto do so, the FIC handler 2121 may include an FIC segment buffer, an FICsegment parser, and an FIC chunk parser.

The FIC segment buffer buffers FIC segment groups being inputted in M/Hframe units from the signaling decoder 2118, thereby outputting thebuffered FIC segment groups to the FIC segment parser. Thereafter, theFIC segment parser extracts the header of each FIC segment stored in theFIC segment buffer so as to analyze the extracted headers. Then, basedupon the analyzed result, the FIC segment parser outputs the payload ofthe respective FIC segments to the FIC chunk parser. The FIC chunkparser uses the analyzed result outputted from the FIC segment parser soas to recover the FIC chunk data structure from the FIC segmentpayloads, thereby analyzing the received FIC chunk data structure.Subsequently, the FIC chunk parser extracts the signaling informationfor service acquisition. The signaling information acquired from the FICchunk parser is outputted to the service manager 2122.

Meanwhile, the service signaling handler 2123 is configured by includinga service signaling buffer and a service signaling parser. And, theservice signaling handler 2123 buffers the table sections (e.g., SMTsection, GAT section) included in the service signaling channel, whichis transmitted from the UDP datagram handler 2143, thereby analyzing andprocessing the buffered table sections. The SMT information and GATinformation processed by the service signaling handler 2123 are alsooutputted to the service manager 2122.

According to the embodiment of the present invention, the servicesignaling channel transmitting the SMT section and the GAT section isincluded in the corresponding RS frame in a UDP/IP packet format havinga well-known IP destination address and a well-known destination UDPport number, thereby being received. Accordingly, in the receivingsystem, a service signaling channel may be acquired without requiringseparate IP access information. Furthermore, each signaling table (e.g.,SMT, GAT, etc.) within the acquired service signaling channel isidentified by using a table identifier.

The SMT section provides signaling information on all services(including IP access information) within the ensemble, which includesthe SMT section. Therefore, an IP stream component belonging to arequested service is accessed by using the information parsed from theSMT, so as to provide the corresponding service to the user.Furthermore, if service guide data are included in an ensemble, whichincludes the SMT section, as a signaled mobile service, so as to bereceived, the SMT section provides IP access information of the mobileservice including the SG data.

Additionally, the GAT section provides information on the SG providerseach transmitting a service guide and service guide bootstrappinginformation, which is required for accessing the SG. The SGbootstrapping information may very depending upon the SG transmissionmethod and includes access information on the corresponding SG.Furthermore, the SG bootstrapping information may further include atransmission session identifier of an announcement channel.

The service manager 2122 uses the SG bootstrapping information, which isincluded in the GAT and signaled for each SG provider, so as to receivethe corresponding SG from any one of the current RS frame, the tuner2111, the other broadcast network interface 2001, and the interactionnetwork interface. More specifically, based upon the SG bootstrappinginformation signaled to the GAT, which has been extracted from themobile broadcast signal received through the tuner 2111, a service guideassociated with the mobile broadcast signal is received from any one ofthe corresponding mobile broadcast signal, a mobile broadcast signal ofanother physical channel, another broadcast network, and an interactionchannel. The received SG is either outputted to the ALC/LCT handler 2148or outputted to the SG handler 2165.

Since the process of receiving the corresponding SG using the SGbootstrapping information has been described in detail with reference toFIG. 16 to FIG. 22, detailed description of the same will be omitted forsimplicity.

The information parsed from the SMT is collected by the service manager2122 and is then stored in the first storage unit 2124. The servicemanager 2122 stores the information extracted from the SMT in the firststorage unit 2124 in a service map and guide data format.

That is, the service manager 2122 uses the signaling informationcollected from each of the FIC handler 2121 and the service signalinghandler 2123, so as to configure a service map. Thereafter, the servicemanager 2122 uses a service guide (SG) collected from the service guide(SG) handler 2165 so as to draw up a program guide. Then, the servicemanager 2122 controls the baseband controller 2119 so that a user canreceive (or be provided with) a user-requested mobile service byreferring to the service map and service guide. Furthermore, the servicemanager 2122 may also control the system so that the program guide canbe displayed on at least a portion of the display screen based upon theuser's input.

The first storage unit 2124 stores the service map and service guidedrawn up by the service manager 2122. Also, based upon the requests fromthe service manager 2122 and the EPG manager 2171, the first storageunit 2124 extracts the required data, which are then transferred to theservice manager 2122 and/or the EPG manager 2171.

The baseband controller 2119 receives the known data place informationand TPC data, thereby transferring M/H frame time information,information indicating whether or not a data group exists in a selectedparade, place information of known data within a corresponding datagroup, power control information, and so on to each block within thebaseband processor 2110. The TPC data will be described in detail in alater.

Meanwhile, according to the present invention, the transmitting systemuses RS frames by encoding units. Herein, the RS frame may be dividedinto a primary RS frame and a secondary RS frame. However, according tothe embodiment of the present invention, the primary RS frame and thesecondary RS frame will be divided based upon the level of importance ofthe corresponding data.

The primary RS frame decoder 2116 receives, as an input, the output ofthe block decoder 2115. Here, in an embodiment, the primary RS framedecoder 2116 receives mobile service data, which has been encodedthrough Reed Solomon (RS) encoding and/or Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC)encoding, from the block decoder 2115. The primary RS frame decoder 2116may also receive SMT section data, GAT section data or SG data, whichhas been encoded through Reed Solomon (RS) encoding and/or CyclicRedundancy Check (CRC) encoding, from the block decoder 2115.

The primary RS frame decoder 2116 performs inverse processes of an RSframe encoder (not shown) included in the transmitting system, therebycorrecting errors existing within the primary RS frame. Morespecifically, the primary RS frame decoder 2116 forms a primary RS frameby grouping a plurality of data groups and, then, correct errors inprimary RS frame units. In other words, the primary RS frame decoder2116 decodes primary RS frames, which are being transmitted for actualbroadcast services. The primary RS frame decoded by the primary RS framedecoder 2116 outputs to the primary RS frame buffer 2131. The primary RSframe buffer 2131 buffers the primary RS frame, and then configures anM/H TP in each row unit. The M/H TPs of the primary RS frame outputs tothe TP handler 2133.

Additionally, the secondary RS frame decoder 2117 receives, as an input,the output of the block decoder 2115. Herein, in an embodiment, thesecondary RS frame decoder 2117 receives mobile service data, which hasbeen encoded through Reed Solomon (RS) encoding and/or Cyclic RedundancyCheck (CRC) encoding, from the block decoder 2115. The secondary RSframe decoder 2117 may also receive SMT section data, GAT section dataor SG data, which has been encoded through Reed Solomon (RS) encodingand/or Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC) encoding, from the block decoder2115.

The secondary RS frame decoder 2117 performs inverse processes of an RSframe encoder (not shown) included in the transmitting system, therebycorrecting errors existing within the secondary RS frame. Morespecifically, the secondary RS frame decoder 2117 forms a secondary RSframe by grouping a plurality of data groups and, then, correct errorsin secondary RS frame units. In other words, the secondary RS framedecoder 2117 decodes secondary RS frames, which are being transmittedfor actual broadcast services. The secondary RS frame decoded by thesecondary RS frame decoder 2117 outputs to the secondary RS frame buffer2132. The secondary RS frame buffer 2132 buffers the secondary RS frame,and then configures an M/H TP in each row unit. The M/H TPs of thesecondary RS frame outputs to the TP handler 2133.

The TP handler 2133 consists of a TP buffer and a TP parser. The TPhandler 2133 buffers the M/H TPs inputted from the primary RS framebuffer 2131 and the secondary RS frame buffer 2132, and then extractsand analyzes each header of the buffered M/H TPs, thereby recovering IPdatagram from each payload of the corresponding M/H TPs. The recoveredIP datagram is outputted to the IP datagram handler 2141.

The IP datagram handler 2141 consists of an IP datagram buffer and an IPdatagram parser. The IP datagram handler 2141 buffers the IP datagramdelivered from the TP handler 2133, and then extracts and analyzes aheader of the buffered IP datagram, thereby recovering UDP datagram froma payload of the corresponding IP datagram. The recovered UDP datagramis outputted to the UDP datagram handler 2143.

If the UDP datagram is scrambled, the scrambled UDP datagram isdescrambled by the descrambler 2142, and the descrambled UDP datagram isoutputted to the UDP datagram handler 2143. For example, when the UDPdatagram among the received IP datagram is scrambled, the descrambler2142 descrambles the UDP datagram by inputting an encryption key and soon from the service protection stream handler 2146, and outputs thedescrambled UDP datagram to the UDP datagram handler 2143.

The UDP datagram handler 2143 consists of an UDP datagram buffer and anUDP datagram parser. The UDP datagram handler 2143 buffers the UDPdatagram delivered from the IP datagram handler 2141 or the descrambler2142, and then extracts and analyzes a header of the buffered UDPdatagram, thereby recovering data transmitted through a payload of thecorresponding UDP datagram. If the recovered data is an RTP/RTCPdatagram, the recovered data is outputted to the RTP/RTCP datagramhandler 2144. If the recovered data is also an NTP datagram, therecovered data is outputted to the NTP datagram handler 2145.Furthermore, if the recovered data is a service protection stream, therecovered data is outputted to the service protection stream handler2146. And, if the recovered data is an ALC/LCT stream, the recovereddata is outputted to the ALC/LCT steam handler 2148. Also, when therecovered data is SMT section data, the recovered data output to theservice signaling section handler 2123.

Since the SMT section or the service signaling channel that carries theSMT section is an IP datagram having a well-known IP destination addressand a well-known destination UDP port number, the IP datagram handler2141 and the UDP datagram handler 2143 can output data including the SMTsection to the service signaling section handler 2123 without requiringadditional information.

The RTP/RTCP datagram handler 2144 consists of an RTP/RTCP datagrambuffer and an RTP/RTCP datagram parser. The RTP/RTCP datagram handler2144 buffers the data of RTP/RTCP structure outputted from the UDPdatagram handler 2143, and then extracts A/V stream from the buffereddata, thereby outputting the extracted A/V stream to the A/V decoder2161.

The A/V decoder 2161 decodes the audio and video streams outputted fromthe RTP/RTCP datagram handler 2144 using audio and video decodingalgorithms, respectively. The decoded audio and video data is outputtedto the presentation manager 2170. Herein, at least one of an AC-3decoding algorithm, an MPEG 2 audio decoding algorithm, an MPEG 4 audiodecoding algorithm, an AAC decoding algorithm, an AAC+ decodingalgorithm, an HE AAC decoding algorithm, an AAC SBR decoding algorithm,an MPEG surround decoding algorithm, and a BSAC decoding algorithm canbe used as the audio decoding algorithm and at least one of an MPEG 2video decoding algorithm, an MPEG 4 video decoding algorithm, an H.264decoding algorithm, an SVC decoding algorithm, and a VC-1 decodingalgorithm can be used as the audio decoding algorithm.

The NTP datagram handler 2145 consists of an NTP datagram buffer and anNTP datagram parser. The NTP datagram handler 2145 buffers data havingan NTP structure, the data being outputted from the UDP datagram handler2143. Then, the NTP datagram handler 2145 extracts an NTP stream fromthe buffered data. Thereafter, the extracted NTP stream is outputted tothe A/V decoder 2161 so as to be decoded.

The service protection stream handler 2146 may further include a serviceprotection stream buffer. Herein, the service protection stream handler2146 buffers data designated (or required) for service protection, thedata being outputted from the UDP datagram handler 2143. Subsequently,the service protection stream handler 2146 extracts information requiredfor descrambling from the extracted data. The information required fordescrambling includes a key value, such as SKIM and LKTM. Theinformation for descrambling is stored in the second storage unit 2147,and, when required, the information for descrambling is outputted to thedescrambler 2142.

The ALC/LCT stream handler 2148 consists of an ALC/LCT stream buffer andan ALC/LCT stream parser. And, the ALC/LCT stream handler 2148 buffersdata having an ALC/LCT structure, the data being outputted from the UDPdatagram handler 2143. Then, the ALC/LCT stream handler 2148 analyzes aheader and a header expansion of an ALC/LCT session from the buffereddata. Based upon the analysis result of the header and header expansionof the ALC/LCT session, when the data being transmitted to the ALC/LCTsession correspond to an XML structure, the corresponding data areoutputted to an XML parser 2150. Alternatively, when the data beingtransmitted to the ALC/LCT session correspond to a file structure, thecorresponding data are outputted to a file decoder 2162. At this point,when the data that are being transmitted to the ALC/LCT session arecompressed, the compressed data are decompressed by a decompressor 2149,thereby being outputted to the XML parser 2150 or the file decoder 2162.

The XML parser 2150 analyses the XML data being transmitted through theALC/LCT session. Then, when the analyzed data correspond to datadesignated to a file-based service, the XML parser 2150 outputs thecorresponding data to the FDT handler 2151. On the other hand, if theanalyzed data correspond to data designated to a service guide, the XMLparser 2150 outputs the corresponding data to the SG handler 2165. TheFDT handler 2151 analyzes and processes a file description table of aFLUTE protocol, which is transmitted in an XML structure through theALC/LCT session.

The SG handler 2165 collects and analyzes the data designated for aservice guide, the data being transmitted in an XML structure, therebyoutputting the analyzed data to the service manager 2122.

The file decoder 2162 decodes the data having a file structure and beingtransmitted through the ALC/LCT session, thereby outputting the decodeddata to the middleware engine 2164 or storing the decoded data in athird storage unit 2163. Herein, the middleware engine 2164 translatesthe file structure data (i.e., the application) and executes thetranslated application. Thereafter, the application may be outputted toan output device, such as a display screen or speakers, through theapplication presentation manager 2170. According to an embodiment of thepresent invention, the middleware engine 2164 corresponds to aJAVA-based middleware engine.

Based upon a user-input, the EPG manager 2171 receives EPG data eitherthrough the service manager 2122 or through the SG handler 2165, so asto convert the received EPG data to a display format, thereby outputtingthe converted data to the presentation manager 2170.

The application manager 2172 performs overall management associated withthe processing of application data, which are being transmitted inobject formats, file formats, and so on. Furthermore, based upon auser-command inputted through the UI manager 2173, the operationcontroller 2100 controls at least one of the service manager 2122, theEPG manager 2171, the application manager 2172, and the presentationmanager 2170, so as to enable the user-requested function to beexecuted.

The UI manager 2173 transfers the user-input to the operation controller2100 through the UI.

Finally, the presentation manager 2170 provides at least one of theaudio and video data being outputted from the A/V decoder 2161 and theEPG data being outputted from the EPG manager 2171 to the user throughthe speaker and/or display screen.

As described above, the transmitting and receiving system and thebroadcast signal processing method of the same according to the presentinvention have the following advantages.

The present invention can signal mapping information between an ensembleand a mobile service by using an FIC chunk, and can divide and transmitthe FIC chunk into FIC segment units, thereby enabling the receivingsystem to perform quick service acquisition.

Additionally, by using the service guide bootstrapping informationsignaled to a guide access table (GAT), the service guide may beaccessed, even if the service guide associated with the current mobilebroadcast signal is transmitted to any one of the current mobilebroadcast signal, a mobile broadcast signal of another channel, anotherbroadcast network, and an interaction channel.

Moreover, the present invention may also receive the mobile service datawithout any error even in channels having severe ghost effect and noise.Furthermore, by inserting known data in a particular position (or place)within a data region and transmitting the processed data, the receivingperformance of the receiving system may be enhanced even in a channelenvironment that is liable to frequent changes. Finally, the presentinvention is even more effective when applied to mobile and portablereceivers, which are also liable to a frequent change in channel andwhich require protection (or resistance) against intense noise.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that variousmodifications and variations can be made in the present inventionwithout departing from the spirit or scope of the inventions. Thus, itis intended that the present invention covers the modifications andvariations of this invention provided they come within the scope of theappended claims and their equivalents.

1. A data processing method of a receiving system, comprising: receivinga broadcast signal through a mobile broadcast network, wherein thebroadcast signal includes mobile service data and a first signalingtable, and wherein the first signaling table includes service guidetransmission information and service guide bootstrapping information onthe mobile service data; acquiring the service guide bootstrappinginformation based upon the service guide transmission informationincluded in the first signaling table; and accessing a service guide byusing the acquired service guide bootstrapping information.
 2. Themethod of claim 1, wherein, when the service guide transmissioninformation indicates that the service guide is included and transmittedin the broadcast signal including the mobile service data, the serviceguide bootstrapping information comprises an identifier of a mobileservice including the service guide and a transmission sessionidentifier for an announcement channel of the service guide.
 3. Themethod of claim 2, comprising: extracting a second signaling table fromthe broadcast signal including the mobile service data, and acquiring IPaccess information of the mobile service including the service guidefrom the extracted second signaling table.
 4. The method of claim 3,wherein the first signaling table corresponds to a guide access table(GAT), and wherein the second signaling table corresponds to a servicemap table (SMT).
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein, when the serviceguide transmission information indicates that the service guide isincluded and transmitted in a broadcast signal of a physical channeldifferent from a physical channel of the broadcast signal including themobile service data, the service guide bootstrapping informationcomprises a transport stream identifier of the broadcast signalincluding the service guide, an identifier of a mobile service includingthe service guide, and a transmission session identifier on anannouncement channel of the service guide.
 6. The method of claim 5,comprising: extracting a second signaling table from the broadcastsignal including the service guide, and acquiring IP access informationof the mobile service including the service guide from the extractedsecond signaling table.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein, when theservice guide transmission information indicates that the service guideis transmitted to a broadcast network other than the mobile broadcastnetwork, the service guide bootstrapping information comprises IP accessinformation on an announcement channel of the service guide, and atransmission session identifier on an announcement channel of theservice guide.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein, when the service guidetransmission information indicates that the service guide is transmittedthrough an interaction channel, the service guide bootstrappinginformation comprises a uniform resource locator (URL) indicating anentry point location of the service guide.
 9. A receiving system,comprising: a receiving unit for receiving a broadcast signal through amobile broadcast network, wherein the broadcast signal includes mobileservice data and a first signaling table, and wherein the firstsignaling table includes service guide transmission information andservice guide bootstrapping information on the mobile service data; afirst handler for acquiring the service guide bootstrapping informationbased upon the service guide transmission information included in thefirst signaling table; and a second handler for accessing a serviceguide by using the acquired service guide bootstrapping information. 10.The receiving system of claim 9, wherein, when the service guidetransmission information indicates that the service guide is includedand transmitted in the broadcast signal including the mobile servicedata, the service guide bootstrapping information comprises anidentifier of a mobile service including the service guide and atransmission session identifier for an announcement channel of theservice guide.
 11. The receiving system of claim 10, wherein the secondhandler extracts a second signaling table from the broadcast signalincluding the mobile service data, and acquires IP access information ofthe mobile service including the service guide from the extracted secondsignaling table.
 12. The receiving system of claim 9, wherein, when theservice guide transmission information indicates that the service guideis included and transmitted in a broadcast signal of a physical channeldifferent from a physical channel of the broadcast signal including themobile service data, the service guide bootstrapping informationcomprises a transport stream identifier of the broadcast signalincluding the service guide, an identifier of a mobile service includingthe service guide, and a transmission session identifier on anannouncement channel of the service guide.
 13. The receiving system ofclaim 12, wherein the second handler extracts a second signaling tablefrom the broadcast signal including the service guide, and acquires IPaccess information of the mobile service including the service guidefrom the extracted second signaling table.
 14. The receiving system ofclaim 9, wherein, when the service guide transmission informationindicates that the service guide is transmitted to a broadcast networkother than the mobile broadcast network, the service guide bootstrappinginformation comprises IP access information on an announcement channelof the service guide, and a transmission session identifier on anannouncement channel of the service guide.
 15. The receiving system ofclaim 9, wherein, when the service guide transmission informationindicates that the service guide is transmitted through an interactionchannel, the service guide bootstrapping information comprises a uniformresource locator (URL) indicating an entry point location of the serviceguide.